Zambia

Zambia Faces Cholera Crisis: Debt Talks and Vaccination Efforts Underway

Discover the latest updates on Zambia's cholera outbreak and debt discussions with the US Treasury official. Learn about the countrywide vaccination campaign and the impact on children under five.

Zambia is currently grappling with a severe cholera outbreak that has claimed over 400 lives and infected more than 10,000 people. The U.S. Treasury Department's top international official recently engaged in discussions with Zambia's finance minister regarding the ongoing debt restructuring and the cholera crisis. As authorities begin a countrywide vaccination campaign to combat the outbreak, concerns are heightened due to the spread of the disease to nine out of Zambia's 10 provinces.

In response to the escalating situation, the Zambian government has converted a large soccer stadium in the capital city into a treatment facility. With fears of the outbreak intensifying with the onset of increased rains and possible flooding, the Red Cross Red Crescent Climate has expressed concerns about the potential for a further surge in cases.

Furthermore, amidst the crisis, the Chinese community in Zambia has shown solidarity by donating essential supplies to support the fight against cholera. This collaborative effort highlights the importance of community involvement in combatting health emergencies and underscores the global response to humanitarian crises.

In a related development, Zambia's debut green bond has successfully raised $54 million in its initial tranche. This sustainable investment initiative signals a positive step towards supporting environmental projects in the country and attracting investments from financial institutions. Additionally, the prevalence of child marriages in Zambia remains a pressing issue, with over 1.7 million Zambian girls under 18 being married, emphasizing the urgent need for social and legal interventions to protect vulnerable individuals.