President Hakainde Hichilema has handed over 119 ambulances to various parliamentary constituencies countrywide.
The ambulances, part of 156 purchased using the Constituency Development Fund (CDF), demonstrate the government’s commitment to enhancing primary healthcare through decentralization.
In his remarks, President Hichilema reiterated the government’s dedication to implementing the 2023 national decentralization policy, devolving functions to local authority levels. To achieve this, the government has increased funding to local levels through the CDF.
The President directed the Ministry of Health to build capacity in basic life support services for ambulance personnel.
“I entrust these ambulances to local authorities with confidence that they will manage and utilize them responsibly, ensuring proper maintenance,” President Hichilema stated.
Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development Permanent Secretary Nicholas Phiri announced that each ambulance was purchased at US$89,500. Mr. Phiri commended President Hichilema for the cost-effective delivery of the ambulances.
“Thank you for demonstrating that it’s possible to deliver at a competitive price, buying these ambulances at US$89,500 each,” Phiri said.
Minister of Health Elijah Muchima assured that the ambulances will be handled with care to benefit more people.
Northwestern Province is among the first beneficiaries under Phase One, with 9 constituencies receiving brand-new ambulances.
This development will strengthen emergency response, reduce maternal and infant mortality, and improve access to timely healthcare services.
For a long time, rural communities have faced difficulties due to long distances to health facilities.
The provision of these ambulances is a life-saving intervention enhancing public confidence in the health system and contributing to Western Province’s socio-economic development.
18. 09. 2025
