Zambia's foreign minister condemned the US ambassador's decision to publicly announce a $50 million cut in medical aid due to alleged corruption involving the sale of donated drugs by Zambian pharmacies. This announcement, made after unproductive diplomatic meetings, has raised concerns about the erosion of diplomatic norms. Foreign Minister Mulambo Haimbe emphasized the importance of respecting diplomatic channels, while the Zambian Health Minister acknowledged the issue and assured the public of no immediate medication shortages despite the funding cut.
An investigation of some 2,000 pharmacies in Zambia from 2021 to 2023 found nearly half of them were selling medicines and products paid for by US aid funds.
Mulambo Haimbe bemoaned an 'increasing tendency' by envoys to ignore diplomatic channels, saying this risked jeopardising the 'spirit of mutual respect'.
We remain open to addressing any matters of concern through appropriate diplomatic channels,
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