Zambia is poised to sign a five-year, U.S.$1.5 billion health funding agreement with the United States after reaching a resolution over the handling of sensitive medical data. Under the deal, Washington will provide U.S.$1.5 billion, while Zambia is expected to commit U.S.$2.1 billion to health programmes.
The Zambian government had initially turned down the agreement because of provisions requiring the sharing of medical information and biological samples. Officials now say those requirements have been narrowed to data necessary to monitor and assess U.S.-funded programmes. A provision granting access to patient specimens has also been removed.
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Zimbabwe and Ghana, however, have rejected similar U.S. funding conditions, citing concerns over national sovereignty and the protection of sensitive health information. Zimbabwe has specifically cautioned against unrestricted access to epidemiological data and biological samples.
