Ambassador Mulonda commends Zambians in the Diaspora for medical supplies donation to Zambia

July 16, 2014 - Zambia's Ambassador to the United States Palan Mulonda has applauded some Zambians in the Diaspora for recognizing needs in Zambia and committing to providing support.

A team of California-based organizations whose leadership have roots in Zambia have teamed up for a shared philanthropic cause that will include shipment of medical supplies and volunteer doctors travelling to Zambia to provide medical assistance to hospitals in Lusaka and Ndola.

Ambassador Mulonda commended the 7 medical doctors for their efforts which include carrying out specific procedures as well as distribution of medical supplies to church run health facilities under Churches Health Association of Zambia (CHAZ).

"This is truly a humbling selfless gesture". Ambassador Mulonda said.

The Zambia-USA Chamber of Commerce teamed up with organizations like MSI International, Shivam International Realtors, Tarsadia Foundation, Anekant Community Center to ship and distribute over 600 kilograms of medical supplies to Ndola Central Hospital and CHAZ.

Mr Arun Arya of Shivam Realtors who was born in Ndola and moved to the US over 25 years ago and Dr. Nitin Shah are leading a team of doctors to Lusaka and Ndola for a Medical and Surgical mission from July 28 to August 1. The doctors will comprise 4 anesthesiologists, 2 ophthalmologists and 1dermatologist. The doctors will volunteer their services at Lusaka Eye Hospital and Ndola Central Hospital.

Mr Arun observed that distance had made it difficult for many to provide support or get more involved with activities on the ground in Zambia.

"The problem is not the supplies, the problem is the means of getting them to the right people and regularly. We have been away from home for so long that we are not familiar with all the processes and procedures." Arya said.

Dr Shah of Anekant Community Center (ACC) stated that he believes that this collaboration has the potential to facilitate growth and development in other areas besides philanthropy.

Zambia USA Chamber of Commerce founder Robert Sichinga Jnr said that he was excited about the donation and how the strengths of the various players complimented each other and made this donation a reality.

"There are many healthcare facilities and not-for-profit US organizations that have access to an abundance of excess medical equipment and supplies. Many of these supplies and equipment can go a long way in alleviating some healthcare needs, particularly in the underserved areas." Mr. Sichinga said.

Issued by
Patricia Littiya
First Secretary (Press and Public Relations)
Embassy of the Republic of Zambia
Washington DC 20008
Direct +1 202 265 0123
Fax +1 202 332 0826