Africa CDC warns sanctions may disrupt Zimbabwe’s health procurement

Archival photograph: laboratory staff in Zimbabwe. Image source: African Press Agency.

Africa CDC is urging governments, financial institutions and suppliers to protect Zimbabwe’s access to legitimate health financing and procurement, alongside its call for the immediate and unconditional lifting of unilateral sanctions.

In a communiqué issued on 25 October, the agency warned that restrictions affecting financial transactions could complicate the purchase of medical supplies, increase costs and affect access to medicines, vaccines, diagnostics and essential services. The Eastleigh Voice reported the statement, which highlighted children, pregnant women and patients requiring continuous treatment.

“Health must never be collateral damage in political disputes,” said Africa CDC director general Jean Kaseya.

The appeal follows a 23 October statement by African Union Commission chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf. The AU has said sanctions have restricted access to international financial systems, discouraged investment and increased the cost of doing business. The measures differ between countries, and some have been revised or lifted, the report notes.

For health institutions and procurement teams, the agency’s stated concern is the continuity of payment channels, supply arrangements and technical cooperation. Its communiqué attributes those risks to financing and transaction barriers rather than announcing a change to Zimbabwe’s procurement rules.

Africa CDC said it would continue supporting the Ministry of Health and Child Care on disease surveillance, laboratory capacity, workforce development and emergency preparedness and response, working with the AU, SADC and other partners.