Malawi aligns health reforms with Lusaka agenda to strengthen healthcare system

Malawi Government says it is advancing key health sector reforms by integrating the Lusaka Agenda, a strategic initiative aimed at strengthening primary healthcare, governance and financial management.

Director of Planning and Policy Development at the Ministry of health Dr. Gerald Manthalu disclosed this at a side meeting of the African Health Agenda International Conference underway in Kigali, Rwanda.

He said the reforms include integration of primary healthcare services, optimizing the health workforce, improving supply chain systems and promoting financial transparency in the health sector.

“We are now working towards a more transparent and accountable financial system where funds from the Global Fund are being reflected in the national budget to allow for parliamentary oversight. We have also decentralised funds to district health offices to improve service delivery,” said Manthalu.

Meanwhile, in line with the Lusaka Agenda, government has also introduced a new Implementing Partner Re-engagement Framework to ensure that donor-supported programmes align with national priorities.

Commenting on the development, Amref Health Africa, Group Chief Executive Officer, Dr.Githinji Gitahi, said, the Lusaka Agenda remains a critical framework in reshaping how global health initiatives operate within national health systems and that to achieve effective and equitable health systems, the continent must prioritise country leadership, strengthen local health system capacities, and commit to sustained domestic financing.

Article first published on https://mbc.mw/malawi-aligns-health-reforms-with-lusaka-agenda-to-strengthen-healthcare-system/