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Zambia Sparks U.S. Aid Clash Over Mining Deal Fears
26 Feb
Summary
- Zambia objects to a $1 billion U.S. health aid deal citing national interests.
- Critics link the aid package to mining access and concerning data sharing.
- A bilateral mining compact deadline of April 1, 2026, is mentioned in draft.
Zambia has expressed strong reservations regarding a substantial U.S. global health aid deal exceeding $1 billion. The Zambian Ministry of Health stated that a specific section of the agreement conflicts with the nation's interests, prompting a request for revisions. This intervention delays the signing of a pact governing crucial health initiatives like HIV and malaria treatment, and epidemic preparedness over the next five years.
Concerns have been voiced by health advocates, who allege that the U.S. funding is contingent upon collaboration in Zambia's mining sector and includes problematic data-sharing clauses. A draft agreement reviewed by Reuters indicates that the deal could be terminated if a proposed 'bilateral compact' tied to mining cooperation is not finalized by April 1, 2026. The U.S. State Department has previously stated that foreign assistance serves U.S. national interests.
Zambia's government has countered these claims, asserting that the agreement is strictly focused on health and has no connection to its natural resources. Despite these assurances, activists highlight potential one-way data sharing to the U.S. and a lack of transparency surrounding the negotiations. Similar concerns have led to the suspension of deals with Kenya and the withdrawal of Zimbabwe from its own U.S. aid agreement.
