Zambia Can Be HIV Free- Schultz

UNITED States (US) Ambassador to Zambia Eric Schultz says Zambia has potential to emerge as an HIV and AIDS-free country in southern Africa.
Speaking when he toured Livingstone Central Hospital to check on US-funded projects yesterday, Mr Schultz said with support, this can be achieved.
“Zambia is one of the countries in southern Africa which is likely to emerge HIV and AIDS-free in future and part of economic potential is having a healthy workforce,” Mr Schultz said.
He said the US provides US$500 million support per year towards health care in Zambia.
“We have given out over US$2 billion since 2004 under the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) and all these have made a difference and Zambia is becoming a healthier country,” he said.
He also said the US government is happy to work with Zambia to mitigate health challenges.
Mr Schultz said Zambia is on the right track healthwise.
And Southern Province medical officer Jelita Chinyonga thanked Mr Schulz for the visit.
Dr Chinyonga said she is grateful for the financial support rendered to Livingstone Central Hospital.
She said her office receives US$5 million per year which filters down to district health centres.
She said this has helped to improve the operations of health centres.
“The support has helped us to improve in the delivery of health services and the people of Southern Province are really benefiting,” Dr Chinyonga said.