In a statement released Thursday, NGOCC Board Chairperson Ms Beauty Katebe said it supports the Government’s position, articulated by Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister Mulambo Haimbe, that Zambia is a sovereign nation with established diplomatic channels for engaging international partners.
Ms Katebe said it had taken note of remarks attributed to the outgoing US envoy suggesting that support to Zambia’s health sector may have been linked to discussions surrounding the country’s critical mineral resources.
She also said that such claims had raised concern about the possible use of aid as leverage in accessing Zambia’s natural wealth.
“We firmly uphold the principle of Zambian sovereignty and the protection of our national resources,” Ms Katebe said.
She has further warned that international cooperation should be based on mutual respect and partnership rather than conditions that undermine Zambia’s autonomy or exert pressure on the country’s policy and legal frameworks
Ms Katebe stated that sovereignty should not be used as a shield against accountability, especially regarding allegations involving public health resources.
The organisation said the concerns raised by the outgoing envoy had revived longstanding allegations surrounding the diversion and sale of state medical supplies, matters it said require urgent transparency and accountability.
NGOCC has since called on Government to provide a comprehensive public update on investigations into the alleged theft and sale of medical supplies, including details on any pharmacy networks implicated.
The organisation also demanded prompt prosecution and administrative action against all individuals found responsible, regardless of their status or position.
Additionally, She urged authorities to implement time-bound reforms aimed at strengthening oversight, traceability, and internal controls within the medical supply chain.
She has further appealed for the protection of whistleblowers under Zambia’s Public Interest Disclosure Act, saying individuals who report corruption should be safeguarded and their concerns acted upon.
NGOCC called on citizens, civil society organisations, and women’s movements to use lawful means to demand integrity, transparency, and accountability in the health sector and other public institutions.
The organisation maintained that while it remains committed to protecting Zambia’s sovereignty and national interests, the country’s citizens also deserve honesty, reliable service delivery, and accountability from those entrusted with public office.
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