Ecobank Zambia has been commended by the Ministry of Health for supporting a major surgical outreach programme aimed at improving access to specialised healthcare services in Zambia’s North-Western Province.
The initiative, implemented in partnership with Upright Africa, was conducted between February and April 2026 at Solwezi General Hospital and surrounding health facilities. The programme successfully delivered more than 200 surgical procedures valued at nearly K1 million, helping to reduce surgical backlogs and bring essential medical care closer to underserved communities.
Speaking during a handover meeting at the Ministry of Health Headquarters, Alex Katakwe described the outreach as a powerful example of how partnerships between the public and private sectors can strengthen healthcare delivery and expand access to quality medical services across Zambia.
The outreach programme covered several medical specialties, including general surgery, orthopedics, obstetrics, urology, oncology, and pediatric congenital care. According to Upright Africa Founder and Chief Executive Officer, John Woods, the campaign also facilitated more than 500 patient interactions through consultations, procedures, and follow-up care.
Beyond surgeries, the programme offered gynecological procedures, internal medicine consultations, chronic disease management, and pediatric treatment. Essential theatre supplies and medical materials were also donated to support continued patient care after the outreach exercise.
Ecobank Zambia says the initiative reflects its broader commitment to creating meaningful impact beyond financial services. Speaking on behalf of the bank, Head Legal and Company Secretary, Suwilanji Sichalwe Reamsbottom, said the partnership highlights the important role businesses can play in supporting community wellbeing and contributing to national development goals.
The Ministry of Health has since welcomed the programme as a model for future healthcare collaborations aimed at improving access to quality and specialised healthcare services, particularly in rural and underserved communities across Zambia.
