Zambia Launches National Initiative to Protect Youth from Non-Communicable Diseases and Mental Health Risks

Lusaka, Zambia, 29 October 2025 - The Government of the Republic of Zambia, in partnership with the United Nations system, has launched a transformative national initiative aimed at reducing the burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and improving mental health among adolescents and youth aged 10–29. The three-year programme, titled “Enhancing Youth Health through Governance and Policy for NCD and Mental Health Prevention”, is supported by the Health4Life Fund and will be implemented nationwide with targeted interventions in both urban and rural districts. 

“This initiative is a major step forward in safeguarding the health and future of Zambia’s young people,” said Dr Kennedy Lishimpi, Permanent Secretary for Technical Services at the Ministry of Health, on behalf of Minister of Health, Hon. Elijah Muchima, MP., “By addressing the root causes of NCDs and mental health challenges, we are investing in a healthier, more productive generation.” 

Led by the Ministry of Health and convened by the United Nations, namely the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the World Health Organization (WHO), the initiative brings together multiple stakeholders including government ministries to address key risk factors including tobacco use, alcohol misuse, unhealthy diets, and physical inactivity. The programme also aims to strengthen youth-focused mental health services and promote protective behaviours through policy reform, digital innovation, and community engagement. 

“The launch of the Health4Life Fund Initiative marks a pivotal step in Zambia’s journey toward Universal Health Coverage. By mobilizing sustainable domestic financing and targeting the growing burden of Non-Communicable Diseases and mental health conditions, especially among adolescents, we are investing in the health, productivity, and future of our nation,” stated Mr. Lewis Mwila, Acting Director of Development Planning, who represented the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Finance and National Planning. 

Recognizing that 70 per cent of premature adult deaths stem from behaviors adopted during adolescence, the project seeks to reduce risks associated with Non-Communicable Diseases and encourage positive health behaviors. It will also support the enactment of Zambia’s first comprehensive Tobacco Control Bill, revision of the Liquor Licensing Act, and development of national standards for sugar and sodium content in processed foods. It will also advocate for the establishment of a Health Promotion Fund financed through health taxes on tobacco, alcohol, and sugar-sweetened beverages.  

The UN Resident Coordinator, Ms. Beatrice Mutali, represented by James Wakiaga, Resident Representative, UNDP Zambia, emphasized the UN’s commitment to supporting Zambia’s health priorities. “This joint programme reflects the UN’s integrated approach to development, aligning with the Zambia-UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework and the global Sustainable Development Goals. It is a model of multisectoral collaboration and youth empowerment,” she said while encouraging all stakeholders to step up their support. “I call upon stakeholders to support sustained domestic health financing, strengthen policy enforcement and regulation, invest in innovation and digital health and champion community-level prevention and early care-seeking.” 

The initiative will leverage digital platforms such as WhatsApp, TikTok, and mobile apps to deliver health education and mental health support. Schools, youth centres, and primary healthcare facilities will be equipped to provide youth-friendly services, while peer-to-peer counselling and behavioural insights will be used to design effective interventions. 

With a total budget of USD 1.15 million, including co-funding from WHO, UNDP, and UNICEF, the programme is expected to catalyze long-term policy change, improve service delivery, and reduce youth exposure to NCD risk factors. It builds on Zambia’s National Health Strategic Plan (2022–2026) and the 8th National Development Plan. 

For media inquiries, please contact: 

Ministry of Health Editor - Andrew H. Phiri | [email protected]| +260975002575. 
UN Zambia Communications Office – Mark Maseko | [email protected] | +260973023940.