Accountability
GROUNDBREAKING OF PHARMACEUTICAL PLANT IN LUSAKA
GROUNDBREAKING OF PHARMACEUTICAL PLANT IN LUSAKA
A Major Step Towards Zambia’s Health Independence 
The Government of the Republic of Zambia has officially launched the construction of a state-of-the-art pharmaceutical manufacturing plant at the Lusaka South Multi-Facility Economic Zone.
The event was held on behalf of Hakainde Hichilema, represented by the Honourable Minister of Youth, Sports and Arts, Elvis Nkandu.
This major project is a joint venture between:
Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency (ZAMMSA)
Akums Drugs and Pharmaceuticals Limited
It represents a key milestone in Zambia’s journey toward:
When the UPND government took office in 2021:
Medicine availability was below 40%
Today (2025):
Availability has increased to over 80%
From K1.2 billion (2021)
To K4.9 billion (2025)
Production of 750+ types of medicines and medical supplies
Reduced dependence on imports
Positioning Zambia as a regional pharmaceutical hub
This project will create:
Immediate jobs during construction
Long-term careers in:
Engineering
Research
Manufacturing
Technical operations
President Hichilema commended the partnership with the Government of India and investors, reaffirming Zambia’s commitment to:
Transparency
Stability
Investor-friendly policies
There have been unverified claims on social media regarding Bokani Soko and alleged misuse of position.
These claims remain unconfirmed
No official statement or legal finding has verified them
Georgia Mutale Chimombo
Principal Public Relations Officer / Spokesperson
Ministry of Health