PPDF and Stakeholders Unite to address Regulatory Barriers in Zambia's Health Industry 

By Daily News Reporter 

In a major step toward transforming healthcare delivery in Lusaka and across the country, the Public Private Dialogue Forum (PPDF) has launched a Health Technical Working Group aimed at strengthening collaboration between government and the private sector to address critical challenges in Zambia’s health system.

The initiative brings together policymakers, regulators, healthcare providers, pharmaceutical manufacturers, and development partners to identify solutions that can improve the sector’s regulatory environment, reduce operational barriers, and enhance the delivery of health services.

Speaking at the Technical Working Group Meeting Public Private Dialogue Forum (PPDF) in Lusaka, Director of Policy, Research and Strategy Ms. Elita Nyirenda stressed the importance of stronger collaboration between stakeholders to meet the growing demand for quality healthcare services in Zambia.

“Government alone cannot meet the growing demand for health services,” Nyirenda said. “The private sector, civil society, and development partners must contribute expertise, innovation and investment to support the health system.”

According to Nyirenda, the technical working group will focus on five priority constraints affecting the sector. Through dialogue and research, members will develop evidence-based policy recommendations aimed at improving the business environment and strengthening healthcare delivery nationwide.

Zambia’s health system continues to face increasing pressure, with nearly 70 percent of the population relying on the public healthcare system. While the government has made significant strides to strengthen the sector, private sector participation has remained limited due to regulatory complexities, licensing challenges, and high compliance costs.

Nyirenda encouraged stakeholders to actively participate in the discussions and contribute ideas that can shape reforms and unlock investment opportunities in the health sector.

Meanwhile, Chairperson of the Health Federation of Zambia Dr. Desai highlighted the importance of dialogue and cooperation among stakeholders within the health ecosystem.

Dr. Desai noted that the COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated the critical role the private health sector can play during national health emergencies.

“The private health sector stepped in and did what it had to do during COVID-19,” he said. “But the pandemic also exposed vulnerabilities in our health systems and showed how much the world depends on a few countries for essential medical supplies.”

He added that Zambia must use the lessons from the pandemic to strengthen its health system and reduce dependence on external sources for medicines and health products.

“If we focus on the ultimate goal of becoming self-reliant, it is very possible,” he said.

"We have bright minds, we have the knowledge, and we have the will to achieve this.” Dr Desai added.

Also speaking at the same meeting PPDF Health Technical Working Group Co-Chair and Permanent Secretary for Special Duties Professor Kasonka acknowledged that while the government has already made significant policy commitments to support the sector, several practical challenges still remain.

These include the high cost of doing business, complex regulatory frameworks, lengthy product registration processes, and infrastructure limitations that often hinder local pharmaceutical manufacturing.

Professor Kasonka explained that the purpose of the dialogue is to identify practical solutions that can help build a competitive and sustainable pharmaceutical manufacturing industry in Zambia while maintaining the highest standards of safety, quality, and regulatory compliance.

“Today’s meeting provides an opportunity for us to engage openly and constructively,” he said.

 "The objective is not only to identify challenges but to develop clear and actionable recommendations that can be presented to government for consideration.” Kasonka said.

He emphasized that the diverse representation in the working group—from regulators to manufacturers—creates an important platform for meaningful engagement and policy development.

If successful, the initiative could play a critical role in positioning Zambia as a regional hub for pharmaceutical production and health innovation.

As discussions begin under the new technical working group, stakeholders remain hopeful that sustained public-private collaboration will drive reforms that strengthen Zambia’s health sector and improve healthcare access for millions of citizens.