US Reduces Aid Over Drug Theft Scandal
The United States announced a $50 million reduction in annual aid to Zambia, citing the “systemic theft” of donated drugs and medical supplies. Ambassador Michael Gonzales stated that this “difficult” decision follows repeated warnings to the Zambian government to protect vital medicines, including those for malaria, HIV, and tuberculosis. The US discovered in 2021 that drugs meant for free distribution were being sold by pharmacies nationwide.
An investigation from 2021 to 2023 revealed that nearly half of the 2,000 surveyed pharmacies sold US-funded medicines. Despite being informed of the theft scandal, the Zambian government failed to take adequate action, prompting the US to withdraw support. Gonzales emphasised that the US would no longer fund the “personal enrichment of fraudsters” with taxpayer money.
The US embassy in Zambia noted that its aid accounts for about a third of the country’s public health spending. The Zambian government has not yet commented on the decision. This aid cut is separate from a broader review of foreign aid spending initiated by President Donald Trump’s administration.
Gonzales recommended that the aid reductions begin in January next year, allowing Zambia time to plan for new procurements of essential drugs. The decision underscores the US commitment to ensuring that aid is used effectively and transparently, particularly in critical health sectors.
Source: AfricaNews