Zambia launches key ATOM Coalition workshop on sustainable health financing

On January 27-28, 2025, the Ministry of Health, the Zambian Cancer Society, and the UICC-led ATOM Coalition convened to advance ATOM Coalition activities in Zambia. The workshops marked the official launch of ATOM Coalition activities in Zambia and included a pivotal workshop on sustainable health financing.

The workshop brought together country health experts to address financing, regulatory, and clinical strategies for improving access to cancer diagnostics and medicines. The stakeholders collaboratively explored sustainable solutions to address the cancer care gaps in the country – especially regarding the availability of affordable medicines The event followed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Zambian Government and the UICC in 2024, officially kickstarting ATOM Coalition efforts in the country. As the third country to sign the MoU, Zambia is among 46 low- and lower-middle-income countries chosen by the UICC-led ATOM Coalition to support its mission of improving access to essential cancer diagnostics and medicines. The initiatives are in collaboration with the country’s Ministry of Health, Zambia’s Cancer Diseases Hospital, UICC members and ATOM Coalition Partners. The Medicines Research and Access Platform (MedRap) supports the MOH and the ATOM Coalition in conducting situation analyses to identify capacity-strengthening activities.

Key initiatives introduced during the event included a Situation Analysis to assess capacity-strengthening efforts along the medicines access pathway, led by MedRap Zambia, the lead technical country consultant. Additionally, the workshop marked the launch of medicine and technology access programs in collaboration with ATOM Coalition partners, reinforcing efforts to expand oncology treatment options in Zambia.

Key outcomes of the workshop included the presentation of early findings from the Situation Analysis, developed with the Multi-Stakeholder Technical Working Group. The discussions also explored sustainable health financing strategies to create fiscal space for cancer medicines, ensuring long-term accessibility and affordability of oncology treatments in the country.

This milestone reflects a collective commitment to improving cancer care access. We look forward to continued collaboration with partners, UICC members, and stakeholders to drive lasting impact in Zambia.

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