Bridging the Healthcare Gap in the Diocese of Mpika

Access to healthcare remains a significant challenge in Zambia, especially in rural areas where 60 percent of the population lives. There, communities face a critical shortage of healthcare facilities and medical professionals, forcing many people to travel long distances, at great cost, to receive basic care. In the Diocese of Mpika, this reality is part of everyday life.

Maternal healthcare is a particularly serious concern. Statistics reveal that 31 percent of women give birth without adequate medical support, and postpartum haemorrhage accounts for 34 percent of maternal deaths in Zambia. This high mortality rate arises from a combination of factors, including limited access to prenatal screening, and the lack of timely emergency care when complications arise — which leaves many mothers vulnerable during childbirth.

With a majority of families living below the poverty line, essential maternal healthcare services, such as blood transfusions and surgical care, are out of reach for many.

To address these challenges, the Diocese of Mpika is working in partnership with local government and Catholic Mission to improve healthcare access and quality for people across the region. The diocese currently manages six healthcare facilities, including Chalabesa Mission Hospital, which plays a vital role in serving remote communities.

Their efforts are focused on strengthening maternal and child health services, providing safe and supportive environments for childbirth, ensuring faster referrals for mothers needing specialised care, and ultimately reducing maternal and neonatal mortality rates.

With your support, the Diocese of Mpika hopes to further enhance its healthcare infrastructure by creating a maternity wing and mothers’ shelter at Chalabesa, and establishing 10 outreach health posts to serve some of the most isolated communities.

Together, we can help ensure that every mother and child receives the care they deserve.

Learn More About Zambia

Zambia, officially the Republic of Zambia, is a landlocked country in Africa and is bordered by eight countries including Tanzania, Zimbabwe, and Angola. Its capital, Lusaka, serves as the political and economic hub of the nation. The country spans 752,617 square kilometres and is home to more than 21 million people.

Blessed with abundant natural wealth, Zambia is working toward overcoming challenges and unlocking its full potential. The country currently relies heavily on copper mining, which makes up a large share of its exports, however, fluctuations in global copper prices often cause economic problems. To grow its economy, Zambia is developing other sectors such as farming and tourism, but progress is slow due to poor infrastructure and lack of investment.

The need to improve infrastructure has led to a large public debt, leaving fewer resources available to finance essential services such as healthcare and education. This financial burden limits growth and development, making it harder for the population to access vital services.

Poverty is a constant challenge, with more than half the population living below the poverty line. Rural areas experience the greatest difficulties, with limited access to clean water, electricity, and sanitation, as well as barriers to education and healthcare.

Addressing climate change and deforestation is also a priority, as they impact agriculture, livelihoods, and access to essential services.

The resilience of the Zambian people and local communities is inspiring. Grassroots initiatives, such as small scale farming projects and renewable energy efforts, are helping to improve livelihoods and drive positive change. With continued innovation and global partnerships, Zambia is well positioned to build a stronger, more sustainable future.