Climate Shocks and Epidemics Demand Stronger Global Health Support, President Hichilema Tells UNGA

President Hakainde Hichilema says climate-related disasters and public health crises are severely testing national healthcare systems, an has called on the international community to establish a fairer, more dependable global public-health architecture. 

​In a speech delivered on his behalf by Health Minister Professor Roma Chilengi at an AIDS Healthcare Foundation event on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly (UNGA 81), President Hichilema cited Zambia’s recent 2024 drought and the 2023–2024 cholera epidemic as clear evidence of the strain extreme weather places on disease control and public health services. 

​The President emphasised that no country can handle cross-border threats alone, especially as global official development assistance falls by more than 23 percent in real terms, according to preliminary OECD figures. 

​He highlighted the need for fiscal space to safeguard public services, pointing out that Zambia has committed K26.2 billion (about US$1.1 billion), representing 10.3 percent of its 2026 National Budget to healthcare. The investment focuses on: 

​President Hichilema called on international creditors and financial institutions to support vulnerable nations through timely debt restructuring and grant-based health financing, avoiding loans that deepen debt distress.  He also urged global leaders to reform supply chains under the WHO Pandemic Agreement.