Context:

The United States will reduce its annual health aid to Zambia by $50 million due to the systematic theft and sale of medicines and medical supplies funded by U.S. aid. An investigation revealed that nearly half of the 2,000 pharmacies examined were selling these stolen medicines. Despite being notified of the issue in April 2024, the Zambian government has not taken adequate measures to address the corruption. The cut in aid will impact the provision of medications for critical diseases like HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria. This decision is distinct from broader foreign aid cuts and aims to ensure accountability for U.S. taxpayer funds.

Dive Deeper:

• The U.S. will cut $50 million in aid to Zambia annually because medicines and medical supplies, funded by this aid, were systematically stolen and sold illegally.

• In a comprehensive investigation, it was found that nearly half of the 2,000 pharmacies in Zambia were involved in selling medicines intended to be provided free of charge to the public.

• The Zambian government was informed of the theft scandal in April 2024 but has been criticized for failing to take sufficient action to combat the corruption.

• The reduction in aid will particularly affect the availability of medications for diseases such as HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria, which are prevalent in Zambia.

• U.S. Ambassador Michael Gonzales emphasized the need to protect American taxpayer funds and to ensure that aid is used appropriately and effectively.

• The investigation also uncovered that medicines funded by the Global Fund and other international donors were being sold, indicating a broader issue of misappropriation.

• The U.S. plans to start the aid reduction in January next year to allow Zambia time to adjust and secure new supplies of essential drugs.