In a landmark event, the Cancer Diseases Hospital in Lusaka has received a significant consignment of childhood cancer medicines under the Global Platform for Access to Childhood Cancer Medicines (GPACCM). This initiative, supported by St. Jude's Children’s Hospital, the World Health Organization, and partners, aims to bridge the gap in access to life-saving cancer treatments for children in low and middle-income countries.

Dr Clement Lasuba, WHO Representative in Zambia, highlighted the importance of this initiative. 

“This is a transformative initiative, driven by the vision of a world where every child, regardless of economic circumstances or geographic location, has access to the essential medicines needed to survive and thrive. WHO has joined hands with St Jude Children’s Research Hospital and partners to eliminate barriers that have far too long hindered access to quality cancer treatments for children,” Dr Lasuba stated.

And receiving the consignment, the Ministry of Health Permanent Secretary for Technical Services, Dr Kennedy Lishimpi expressed gratitude for the support.

“This generous contribution from the GPACCM is timely and will greatly enhance our capacity to treat and manage childhood cancers. We are dedicated to ensuring that these medicines reach every child who needs them most,” Dr Lishimpi said.

The permanent secretary highlighted the government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the healthcare system, including improving pediatric oncology diagnostic, management, and care capabilities. 

“Our goal is to improve access to cancer treatment, decentralize cancer services, and strengthen pharmacovigilance to ensure every child receives the care they deserve,” Dr Lishimpi added.

Zambia is one of the six (6) countries, one per WHO region, to be selected as a beneficiary, alongside Ecuador, Jordan, Mongolia, Nepal, and Uzbekistan.  This delivery includes a range of essential medicines critical for treating various types of pediatric cancers, ensuring that Zambian children have access to the necessary treatments to improve their chances of survival.