PRESIDENT Hakainde Hichilema has announced that Zambia will soon begin to manufacture its own local Cholera vaccine, a development that will make it the first African country in history to attain such a health milestone.
The President’s desire to see Zambia locally manufacturing its own vaccines was drawn from the recent Cholera outbreak that affected thousands of Zambians, drastically killing hundreds.
Earlier this year, President Hichilema announced that Zambia is in active talks with China to help the country set up its own laboratory that will see the country having a fast response to those affected with the disease.
Zambia manufacturing its own vaccines will also mean that the country will depend less on donated vaccines, prevent the outbreak in time and reduce the risk of people dying from Cholera.
Also, this development will enable Zambia to become the vaccine helpline for nearby countries once hit with the Cholera outbreak.
Yesterday, the country’s dream became one step away from reality following the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding on the Vaccine Manufacturing between Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) and JIJIA International Company from China at State House.
Also in attendance of the signing was Health Minister, Elijah Muchima, and Commerce, Trade and Industry Minister, Chipoka Mulenga.
“As a Global Cholera Champion, Zambia co-sponsored the Cholera Prevention and Control Resolution, aiming to eliminate cholera by 2030. This partnership will save lives, boost productivity, and serve humanity,” the President said.
He added that Cholera poses a significant threat to the Global South, affecting 1.3 billion people globally and causing 2.86 million cases and 95,000 deaths annually.
“This vaccine plant will serve not only Zambia but also the broader region and Africa. We are grateful to President Xi Jinping and the people of China for making this vision a reality,” said President Hichilema.
By Buumba Mwitumwa
Kalemba October 8, 2024
