*Lusaka, March 19, 2025* – The Minister of Health, Hon. Dr. Elijah Muchima, has officially  handed over 12 ambulances and a vaccine delivery truck procured under the World Bank-funded COVID-19 Project. The vehicles, administered through the Zambia National Public Health Institute (ZNPHI), are expected to enhance emergency medical services and vaccine distribution across the country.

The 12 ambulances include six neonatal and six basic life support units, strategically allocated to key hospitals, including Kanyama Level 1 Hospital, St. Francis Mission Hospital, and Solwezi General Hospital. The refrigerated vaccine truck will support the Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI), ensuring the safe transportation of vaccines.

“This milestone reaffirms the government’s commitment to universal health coverage,” said Dr. Muchima. “These ambulances are lifelines for expectant mothers, accident victims, and rural communities.”

At the national level, significant efforts are underway to enhance ambulance services. Under the Constituency Development Fund (CDF), the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development has procured 156 ambulances, which will be delivered this year, marking a significant advancement in the country’s emergency healthcare services.

Furthermore, the Ministry of Health, through the Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency (ZAMMSA), is finalizing the procurement of 60 additional ambulances to alleviate the strain on current services.

Dr. Muchima emphasized the New D

awn Government’s broader efforts to strengthen Zambia’s health sector, citing the recruitment of over 18,000 health workers and continued investments in infrastructure. He also called on development partners to support digital health innovations and workforce training.

The World Bank was commended for its unwavering support, with Dr. Muchima urging further collaboration to build a resilient healthcare system in Zambia.