Zambia invests K132 million to bolster National Kidney Care Services
Kabwata Presbyterian Church participated in the march past commemorating the World Kidney Day on Friday 13th March, 2026. - Picture by Kabwata Presbyterian Church Burma Road Lusaka
By Hellen Bwalya
The Government of the Republic of Zambia has reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing access to quality kidney care, headlined by a K132 million investment for the procurement of renal consumables.
Speaking at the University Teaching Hospital during World Kidney Day commemorations, Permanent Secretary for Technical Services, Dr. Kennedy Lishimpi, announced that this funding aims to ensure the continuous availability of life-saving dialysis services for patients across the country.
Dr. Lishimpi emphasized that under the leadership of President Hakainde Hichilema, the Ministry of Health has prioritized the needs of those living with kidney disease to alleviate the significant burden the condition places on families and the national healthcare system.
Beyond immediate treatment, the government is focusing on strengthening preventive health programs and community-based initiatives.
Dr. Lishimpi highlighted the importance of early screening and public awareness regarding non-communicable diseases.
To support these efforts, he called for active participation from healthcare professionals, the private sector, and civil society in regional activities such as blood pressure screening, serum creatinine testing, and educational campaigns.
The goal of this collaborative approach is to improve early detection and promote healthier lifestyles to reduce the long-term prevalence of kidney disease in Zambia.
Thomson Fungwa, Chairperson of the Kidney Foundation of Zambia, commended the government’s progress, specifically noting improvements in kidney transplant support and the availability of essential immunosuppressant medicines.
Mr. Fungwa described the partnership between the National Health Insurance Management Authority and accredited dialysis centers in provincial hubs like Lusaka and the Copperbelt as a “game changer” for patient accessibility.
However, Fungwa also urged for further expansion, suggesting the establishment of private kidney care facilities in every provincial center and calling on the Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency (ZAMMSA)to ensure a consistent supply of medical reagents to prevent any disruptions in patient treatment.
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