Zambia’s government, through the Foreign Minister Mulambo Haimbe, has pushed back against comments made by the U.S. ambassador over the alleged theft of donated medical supplies, calling the public remarks a violation of diplomatic protocol.
Some days ago, the U.S. Ambassador Michael Gonzales publicly expressed concern over the alleged large-scale theft of medical supplies donated by the U.S.
In his remarks at the U.S. embassy in Lusaka, Gonzales, who announced last week that the U.S. would cut $50 million in health aid to Zambia, cited “systematic theft” of life-saving medications as part of the reason.
According to Gonzales, the decision to go public came after more than 30 unsuccessful meetings with Zambian officials.
While addressing the media, Haimbe expressed concern over the increasing adoption of unethical communication channels instead of the use of established diplomatic channels, which he said amounted to interference in Zambia’s internal affairs.
“We remain open to addressing any matters of concern through appropriate diplomatic channels,” he said.
The U.S. embassy said it had informed Zambian authorities of its findings in April 2024 and had offered assistance to prevent further theft and prosecute those who are found guilty.
As a fallout, Zambia’s Home Affairs Minister Jacob Mwiimbu confirmed that a forensic audit into the missing medicines has been completed and handed to security agencies.
He stated that about 75 people have been arrested nationwide in connection with the case.
Mwiimbu assured the US and Zambians of the government’s decision to confront the issues raised and that “there will be no sacred cows in this pursuit.”
The Zambian Health Minister Elijah Muchima, while reacting to the allegation, said the issue predates 2021, when the current administration assumed power. He noted that several government officials have been dismissed as a result of the scandal and that a new digital tracking system is being rolled out to monitor medical supplies more effectively.
The expected massive U.S. cut in aid to Zambia and other African countries will take effect next year and is expected to have a direct impact on malaria, HIV, and tuberculosis medical aid programs.
