LUSAKA, July 30 (Xinhua) -- The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) on Thursday handed over essential medical supplies to Zambia to strengthen the country's preparedness and readiness against the Ebola virus and other hemorrhagic fevers.
The supplies, which were donated in Lusaka, the country's capital, included personal protective equipment, infection prevention and control materials, and other medical items.
During the donation ceremony, UNICEF Representative to Zambia Saja Abdullah said that although Zambia has not recorded any cases of Ebola to date, preparedness remains essential.
"Today is not simply about handing over supplies. It is about investing in preparedness before an emergency happens. It is about protecting health workers, safeguarding communities, and ensuring that children continue to receive the essential services they need," she said.
Kennedy Lishimpi, permanent secretary for technical services at Zambia's Ministry of Health, thanked UNICEF for the donation, saying it will strengthen Zambia's public health preparedness and response capacity.
The government is aware of the devastating impact that infectious disease outbreaks can have on nations, hence the need to continue strengthening surveillance, laboratory capacity, emergency response mechanisms and clinical preparedness, he said.
The supplies will be deployed to priority provinces, districts, health facilities and points of entry, guided by national risk assessments and preparedness plans, he added. ■
