The findings, compiled by independent audit and consultancy firm PricewaterhouseCoopers Zambia, show that the Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency (ZAMSA) purchased large volumes of medicines from foreign suppliers at inflated prices, despite local hospitals experiencing critical shortages.

Speaking on the findings, Daniel Elisha Banda, a lead investigator on the report, said: “Our audit uncovered a troubling pattern where medicines meant for public hospitals were systematically diverted, while ZAMSA engaged in procurement practices that were neither cost-effective nor transparent.”

He added that the situation not only undermines public trust but also worsens access to healthcare for ordinary citizens. “It is deeply concerning that while people in Zambia struggle to access basic medicines, large sums of public funds are being wasted or lost to theft,” Banda stated.

--ChannelAfrica--