Statement: JCTR Responds to US Aid Cut Over Medical Drug Theft, Urges Swift Government Action

The Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection (JCTR) has responded with grave concern to the US Government’s decision to cut $50 million (K1.4 billion) in medical aid to Zambia, citing systemic theft of US-donated drugs and inadequate government action. Highlighting the impact on the poor and vulnerable, JCTR calls the crisis a violation of human dignity and Catholic Social Teaching. The Centre outlines key recommendations including publication of the ZAMMSA audit, protection of whistleblowers, fast-tracked prosecutions, digitisation of the drug supply chain, and strengthened community monitoring. JCTR urges the government to act decisively and transparently to rebuild trust and ensure access to life-saving medicines.