Zambia has taken a historic step toward strengthening its health system with the endorsement of the National Health Compact by President Hakainde Hichilema. In August 2025, Zambia was selected by the World bank to be among the first countries to develop Health Compacts, strategic tools for mobilisingmobilizing resources to advance Universal Health Coverage.

The National Health Compact is a country-led agreement developed in partnership with the Ministry of Health, the World Bank, the World Health Organization, and other health partners. It outlines clear priorities, measurable targets, and costed national plans to guide investments and ensure accountability. At its core is the principle of “one plan, one budget”, which aligns all stakeholders behind Zambia’s national health strategy, reducing duplication and inefficiencies.

President Hichilema’s endorsement signals strong political commitment to health as a foundation for development. “Health is the cornerstone of our economic and social progress,” he emphasized, “We fully support and endorse this initiative, which was developed through an inclusive process involving civil society, the private sector, and other key stakeholders and thank the cooperating partners for their solidarity and collaboration.,” calling on all key partners and stakeholders to rally behind Zambia’s vision for Universal Health Coverage (UHC).

The Health Compact focuses on three critical areas: Expanding primary health care to reach underserved communities; Improving financial protection so families are not pushed into poverty by health costs; Strengthening the health workforce, including digital tools and modernized facilities

The Health Compact also addresses Zambia’s pressing health challenges, including the triple burden of disease, communicable diseases, rising noncommunicable diseases, and neglected tropical diseases, while promoting resilience against future health emergencies.

World Bank Country Manager, Achim Fock, stated: “The Health Compact is a game-changer. It provides a clear, costed roadmap for achieving universal health coverage and building resilience. The World Bank is proud to support Zambia in mobilizing resources and implementing reforms that will strengthen primary health care, expand access, and protect families from financial hardship.”

Adding to this, WHO Representative to Zambia, Dr Clement Lasuba, welcomed the endorsement, noting that the Health Compact provides a transparent framework for partners to align resources and support Zambia’s health priorities. “This is more than a document. It is a commitment to action, accountability, and equity,” he said.

Implementation will be guided by Zambia’s National Health Strategic Plan and supported through other health strategies and workplans. Development partners have pledged to align funding and technical assistance with the Compact, ensuring that Zambia’s health sector reforms are sustainable and impactful.

As Zambia moves forward, the Health Compact stands as a symbol of collective responsibility and shared vision, a commitment to build a resilient health system that leaves no one behind. Through strong leadership, coordinated partnerships, and community engagement, Zambia is charting a path toward a healthier, more prosperous future.