Lack of funding out side Africa for ARV is the work up call-HH

President Hakainde Hichilema emphasized that the lack of funding for antiretroviral (ARV) medications from taxpayers outside Africa serves as a vital wake-up call for both Zambia and the entire continent.

During his remarks at the Inaugural African Continental Free Trade Area Digital Forum in Lusaka, President Hichilema suggested that Africa has long relied on external assistance and now faces the consequences of this approach. He asserted that the decline in developmental aid indicates a significant need for self-reliance and proactive efforts within the continent.

“We often express our frustrations regarding the lack of funding for ARVs from international taxpayers and the reduction in development assistance. However, I believe this presents a crucial wake-up call for Africa. For too long, we have waited for others to take action on our behalf; now is the time for us to take charge and drive our own progress,” he stated.

He encouraged attendees to view this challenge as an opportunity for growth and innovation. “Let us turn this situation around; there lies a great opportunity ahead of us,” he remarked.

President Hichilema urged African nations to recognize the potential that exists in fostering intra-continental trade and production. He posed critical questions about Africa’s trading patterns, highlighting the continent’s capacity to produce essential goods like wheat without relying on imports from other regions. He pointed out the irony of consumers in Zambia enjoying cornflakes made from genetically modified organisms (GMOs) while expressing skepticism towards GMOs in other contexts.

“Africa requires not just one but two wake-up calls. There is immense potential for growth, as demonstrated by countries like Nigeria, South Africa, and Ethiopia, which are making significant strides,” he explained.

This morning, the United States announced a reduction of K1.4 billion in aid to Zambia’s health sector, citing the government’s inability to curb the theft of essential medicines, including ARVs, malaria, and tuberculosis treatments.

By Catherine Pule

Kalemba, May 8, 2025