After critical voices rose opposing the United States (US) and Zambia Health Financing Agreement that other countries in Africa rejected, Zambia has finally signed the deal, comforting citizens that contentious clauses raised were removed.
The $1.5 billion deal has been sealed in Lusaka with both the countries promising transparency, mutual respect and accountability as the US replaces the USAID final support to the Southern African country.
Initially, after greater concern from critical voices in Zambia over data sharing, tying of critical minerals framework and matters of national sovereignty and respect of people’s privacy, the government paused signing of the agreement, going back to further negotiate with the US government.
Other countries like Ghana and Zimbabwe have rejected the agreement raising concerns on conditions over critical data sharing.
However, today, Zambia joins Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania that have signed the health agreement, with Health Minister, Professor Roma Chilengi, describing it as good for the benefit of the country.
–ChanneAfrica–
