Medrap

Medrap Our main objective is to strengthen health systems by promoting access to essential medicine through evidence pertaining to essential medicines in Zambia.

Medicines Research and Access Platform (MedRAP) is a Non-governmental organization duly registered under the Ministry of Community Development and Social Services in Zambia MedRAP hosts an advocacy and dissent platform called Medicines Transparency Alliance (MeTA Zambia) which constitutes stakeholders drawn from the Ministry of Health, Zambia Medicines Regulatory Authority, Medical Stores Limited,

Pharmaceutical Society of Zambia as well as Civil Society Organizations that are allied to the health agenda. At district level, MeTA operates in 5 provinces namely Southern, Lusaka, Central, Copperbelt and North Western Provinces. It is organised through Local MeTA Networks (LMNs) composed of local/ grassroot civil society organizations, health providers, media and community leaders. The LMNs drive the advocacy and lobby agenda based on empiric evidence of research. At district level, MedRAP also works with the interdenominational Pastor’s Fellowship groups, Chiefs and traditional leaders by conducting training, dissemination workshops and advocacy outreaches to highlight the broader role of the church and traditional leaders in promoting Sexual Reproductive Health Rights and health messaging especially for under privileged women and adolescents mostly in the rural parts of the country

MedRAP weighs in on NHIMA withdrawalsLUSAKA, Sunday 10th May 2026 - AS Zambia strives to attain Universal Health Coverag...
10/05/2026

MedRAP weighs in on NHIMA withdrawals

LUSAKA, Sunday 10th May 2026 - AS Zambia strives to attain Universal Health Coverage (UHC) by the year 2030, the Medicines Research and Access Platform (MedRAP) has expressed concern at the move by some health facilities to terminate the National Health Insurance Management Authority (NHIMA) contracts.

MedRAP Secretary General David Banda says the pulling out of service providers is a sign of NHIMA's gradual death which sadly defeats the Government's intentions of providing affordable and quality healthcare services to the general citizenry without leaving anyone behind.

Mr. Banda has since called for dialogue among all stakeholders to resolve the pending issues for the benefit of all Zambians.

He further applauds the Government on resuscitation plans of NHIMA so that the institution can fulfil its mandate of remitting funds to providers on time. We also suggest that NHIMA develop treatment protocols to guide the providers' and reduce the abuse of the system in providing unnecessary investigations and treatments.

"We call for wider stakeholder engagements to plan for forward implementation. Further, Community sensitizations on prudent utilization of NHIMA by contributors should be intensified and expanded," Mr Banda said.

Mr Banda says MedRAP is cognisant of the fact that NHIMA was abused by both contributors and service providers, therefore, we are of the view that for the institution to operate viably, the gaps in service provision and contributions as well, should be addressed urgently.

Let NHIMA operate for purpose it was created to achieve Universal Health Coverage.

It is our hope as MedRAP that no Zambian should be left behind interms of health coverage.

Issued by

David C Banda
MedRAP Secretary General
On behalf of MedRAP

08/05/2026

Headwoman Heka Nkemba of Chibwika Chiefdom of Mwinilunga District Reflects on the Impact of the Ending Adolescent Pregnancies and Child Marriage Advocacy Toolkit.
MedRAP Champion Headwoman Heka Nkemba shared a heartfelt reflection on the importance of the Ending Adolescent Pregnancies and Child Marriage Advocacy Toolkit, praising the initiative for empowering young girls with knowledge and guidance.

“I am thankful to MedRAP for this program. In my generation, we never had organisations coming to teach us young girls about adolescent pregnancies and child marriage. Many girls lacked information and support, which affected their futures.

Today, things are changing because young people are now being educated and empowered to make informed decisions about their lives. This program is helping to protect girls and give them hope for a better future,” said Headwoman Heka Nkemba.

The advocacy toolkit continues to play a vital role in raising awareness and strengthening community action against adolescent pregnancies and child marriage.

Tunasakilili Mwani

In 2025, Mwinilunga District recorded approximately 3,420 teenage pregnancies. Additionally, 2,112 cases of s*xually tra...
07/05/2026

In 2025, Mwinilunga District recorded approximately 3,420 teenage pregnancies. Additionally, 2,112 cases of s*xually transmitted infections (syphilis) were reported across the district. These statistics highlight the urgent need for collective action, stronger community engagement, and sustainable advocacy.

The Medicines Research and Access Platform (MedRAP) is currently in Mwinilunga District conducting the Pacesetters Orientation and Action Planning Workshop on Ending Child Marriage and Adolescent Pregnancy.

The workshop seeks to explore how local gatekeepers, stakeholders, Traditional and community leaders,Media,social media influencers , peer educators and educationist can take a leading role in localized advocacy and sensitization efforts. Such initiatives are essential in driving meaningful change at district level and strengthening the fight to end adolescent pregnancies and Child Marriage.

Together, we can build safer, healthier, and more empowered communities for adolescents.

"ADVOCACY WEDNESDAY SPOTLIGHT"MEMORY N.SAKALA Early Life and Education Memory N.Sakala alias known as SMOLLET was born o...
06/05/2026

"ADVOCACY WEDNESDAY SPOTLIGHT"

MEMORY N.SAKALA

Early Life and Education
Memory N.Sakala alias known as SMOLLET was born on 17th December 2002 in Zambia. She began her education at Chadiza Primary School (Grades 1-2), continued at Kanjala Primary School (Grades 3-7), and later attended Katete Girls Boarding Secondary School (Grades 8-12).Her education instilled discipline and determination, inspiring her to persue nursing and youth advocacy.

💡Passion and Motivation
From an early age ,She developed a passion for health education and youth empowerment after witnessing how misinformation negatively affects young people's decisions.She began using her platforms to share knowledge and speak on real life issues, motivated by the belief that even one message can change a life.

🏆 Achievements and Impact
Her achievements include qualifying as a nurse, founding her own Salon to gain financial independence, and leveraging social media to advertise businesses and share health and personal development information.These efforts have positively impacted individuals and small businesses in her community.

💪 Challenges and Lessons
She has also faced challenges, particularly criticism based on her height,with many doubting her abilities.Instead of being discouraged, she used these experiences as motivation to prove herself,learning that limitations do not define a person,mindset and determination do.

🌀 Current Roles and Responsibilities
Currently,she is a qualified nurse awaiting graduation,an entrepreneur managing her salon and a youth advocate using social media to educate,empower and inspire young people.

🌍 Advice and Vision
Her advice to the youth is to create opportunities rather than wait for them,stay consistent,and believe in the their ability to grow.Looking ahead,she envisions herself in the next 5-10 years fully established in her nursing career, expanding her business and amplifying her impact in youth empowerment.

✨ Personal Insight
Enjoys connecting .

North-Western Province EngagementThe Medicines Research and Access Platform (MedRAP) is currently in North-Western Provi...
04/05/2026

North-Western Province Engagement

The Medicines Research and Access Platform (MedRAP) is currently in North-Western Province conducting activities under the Ending Child Marriage and Adolescent Pregnancy Project with support from Unicef Zambia

Earlier, MedRAP paid courtesy calls to key provincial leaders, including:

Mr Luckson Mulumbi- Northwestern Deputy Permanent Secretary

Julius Tonga - Chiefs affairs

Robert Mwenda- Community Development

Dr Lufunda Lukama- Mistry of Health

Speaking during the engagement, Mr. Mulumbi reaffirmed Government’s commitment to the Equal Chances for Human Development Project. He emphasized that investments in infrastructure and education can only benefit children if challenges such as adolescent pregnancies are addressed. He noted that adolescent pregnancies, HIV, and STIs remain significant concerns, partly driven by cultural factors and gaps in programming over the years. He welcomed data-driven interventions that support young people to stay in school and reach their full potential.

Mr. Mwenda highlighted that human development must remain at the center of all efforts, stressing that every child deserves an equal chance to realize their potential, and that child marriage continues to be a major barrier. He called for increased sensitization, especially in rural communities across the province.

Dr. Lukama echoed the importance of mindset change in rural areas, noting that teenage pregnancies are often normalized. He commended MedRAP’s timely intervention and emphasized the value of data-driven approaches in addressing public health challenges effectively.

Together, these engagements reaffirm a shared commitment to ending child marriage, reducing adolescent pregnancies, and ensuring that every young person has the opportunity to thrive.

On this World Press Freedom Day, MedRAP extends its sincere appreciation to the media for their unwavering commitment to...
03/05/2026

On this World Press Freedom Day, MedRAP extends its sincere appreciation to the media for their unwavering commitment to truth, accountability, and the public good.

Your dedication to informing, educating, and amplifying voices is vital to a free and just society. We stand with you in promoting press freedom, ethical journalism, and the protection of journalists everywhere.

Happy World Press Freedom Day

"ADVOCACY WEDNESDAY SPOTLIGHT"My name is Natasha Mwanza, a journalist and public relations professional passionate about...
29/04/2026

"ADVOCACY WEDNESDAY SPOTLIGHT"

My name is Natasha Mwanza, a journalist and public relations professional passionate about using my voice to inform, inspire, and create positive change. I am also a youth leader at church, where I mentor and guide young people in their personal and spiritual growth.

My journey has not been easy. Having experienced teenage pregnancy, I understand the challenges, stigma, and emotional struggles many young girls face. But I chose not to let my past define me. Instead, I turned my experience into purpose.

Today, I am committed to empowering young girls and teenage mothers, helping them rebuild their confidence, return to school, and believe that their story does not end with their circumstances.

One of my proudest achievements is going back to school and pursuing journalism and public relations despite the obstacles. It reminded me that no matter what happens in life, it is always possible to rise again.

Through mentorship, advocacy, and my work in the media, I continue to support and uplift young people in my community. My message is simple: your past does not limit your future.

I believe we need stronger support systems for teenage mothers,through education, counseling, and skills training,so they can rebuild their lives with dignity.

In the next 5–10 years, I hope to establish an organization dedicated to helping teenage mothers get back on track, while continuing to grow in the media and leadership.

- If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this: your greatest challenges can become your greatest purpose.

Dear family, traditional leaders, and the people of Senior Chief Mwewa’s chiefdom,We are deeply saddened by the passing ...
27/04/2026

Dear family, traditional leaders, and the people of Senior Chief Mwewa’s chiefdom,

We are deeply saddened by the passing of Senior Chief Mwewa. On behalf of the MedRAP team, please accept our heartfelt condolences. In our recent consultative meeting he welcomed us with warmth and clear commitment , celebrating the new UNICEF-supported classroom block, raising the alarm about child marriages and adolescent pregnancies, and offering land for a skills training centre to protect and empower young people. He spoke passionately about losses the community has endured, the risks posed by declining fishing stocks and fishing camps, and the practical steps taken through community leadership groups, school registers, and customary penalties to safeguard adolescents.

Senior Chief Mwewa’s leadership, vision, and care for children and adolescents left a lasting mark. We mourn his loss and honor his tireless efforts to keep girls and boys in school, to reduce early marriage and pregnancy, and to build safer futures. We stand with his family and the chiefdom in this time of grief and remain committed to continuing the work he championed.

With deepest sympathy and solidarity,

The MedRAP Team

The 1st Continental Conference for Non-State Actors on Demographic Dividend and Reproductive Health has officially opene...
08/04/2026

The 1st Continental Conference for Non-State Actors on Demographic Dividend and Reproductive Health has officially opened in Lusaka, Zambia.

Non-state actors including civil society, faith-based organizations, global and continental agencies, professional associations, community groups, research and academic institutions, and private sector partners are indispensable in advancing Africa’s demographic dividend and reproductive health agenda.

In his opening remarks, Medicines Research and Access Platform Executive Director, Mr. Liyoka Liyoka, emphasized that reproductive health is key to unlocking the full potential of the continent’s youthful population.

He called on all non-state actors to collectively and individually make this a top priority by advocating for:

✔️ Increased investment in adolescent boys’ and girls’ education and health
✔️ Universal access to Comprehensive Sexuality Education
✔️ Expanded access to family planning and reproductive healthcare
✔️ Provision of adolescent-friendly health services as part of primary healthcare systems across Africa

ADVOCACY WEDNESDAY SPOTLIGHT:LWEENDO MUNKOMBWEMy name is LWEENDO MUNKOMBWE,I am a 48-year- old male, a holder of a Degre...
08/04/2026

ADVOCACY WEDNESDAY SPOTLIGHT:LWEENDO MUNKOMBWE

My name is LWEENDO MUNKOMBWE,I am a 48-year- old male, a holder of a Degree in Development Studies, and I live in Katete.
My greatest motivation comes from my parents, who are hardworking and deeply committed to serving others.

Passion and Motivation

I am deeply passionate about building communities that support vulnerable and marginalized people. Every human being deserves the opportunity to strive for excellence, especially adolescents and young who often lack the power to stand on their own.

Achievements and Impact

One of my proudest accomplishments was reaching more than 1,000 people through community sensitization programs, sharing messages on safer s*x and the dangers of drug use .Over 500 children were reintegrated into education programs.
- Facilitated HIV testing for more that 5000 adolescents, with 2000 now on treatment.
- Represented community voices at district, provincial and national levels.

Challenges and Lessons

One of the biggest challenges has been the slow acceptance and adoption of survival strategies by community members.Many initiatives are short-term and project-based, making sustainability difficult.Other challenges include limited community involvement in planning and low education levels.

Roles and Responsibilities

I currently serve as an HIV Testing Services and Community Engagement Coordinator. My role involves engaging communities in dialogue on social issues,facilitating community-driven planning and supporting implementations of social change initiatives.

Advice and Vision

To young people aspiring to make a difference,I say: believe in your ability to create change,no matter how small your starting point.Remain committed, disciplined and selfless. Seek knowledge,build strong values and work collaboratively.Change takes time-patience,consistency and integrity are key.

Personal Insight
Beyond my professional role, I serve as a Master Guide in the Seventh-Day Adventist Church

ADVOCACY WEDNESDAY SPOTLIGHT: MIKE SIYUNYIPersonal BackgroundBorn on 24th October 1989, Mike is a dedicated community ad...
01/04/2026

ADVOCACY WEDNESDAY SPOTLIGHT: MIKE SIYUNYI
Personal Background
Born on 24th October 1989, Mike is a dedicated community advocate from Kazungula, Zambia. He is married and a committed member of the New Apostolic Church.
He speaks Lozi, Tonga, Nyanja, Bemba, and English, enabling him to effectively engage diverse communities.
________________________________________
Education & Professional Qualifications
He holds a Diploma in Business Administration from North East Institute of Technology (2022) and a Diploma in Project Management from Alison E-Learning Institute (2016). He also obtained a Certificate in Microsoft Office Productivity from Basi Dream Technology (2015) and a Certificate of Achievement from Voluntary Service Overseas (2013), in addition to his Grade 12 Certificate from ECZ (2010).
Inspiration & Personal Journey
Inspired by the Zambia Interfaith Networking Group, whose sponsorship supported his education, Mike developed a strong passion for giving back to underserved communities.
Growing up under the care of his aunt in a challenging environment shaped his resilience, emotional strength, and adaptability, which continue to guide his work today.
________________________________________
Passion & Motivation
Mike is deeply passionate about children, young people, and youth empowerment.
His experiences growing up motivated him to:
• Support vulnerable young people
• Mentor and inspire youth
• Create opportunities for personal and community development
He currently serves as a Coordinator for children’s activities in his church and is the Founder of the Kazungula Integrated Youth Club.
________________________________________
Achievements & Impact
• Represented Zambia in an international voluntary program with Voluntary Service Overseas (2013), earning recognition as a best role model
• Introduced a Management Information System at St. Francis CIP Project, improving income tracking and operations
• Successfully facilitated acquisition of land for Lushomo Trust Grace Centre
• Developed the organization’s first strategic plan
• Founded and grew Kazungula Integrated Youth Club from 5 to 25 members
• Currently serving as a Zonal Representative and AWDC Vice Chairperson, advocating for community development (e.g., improved access roads)
________________________________________
Leadership & Roles
Chairperson – Kazungula Integrated Youth Club
• Mobilizes youth participation in income-generating activities
• Leads meetings and resource mobilization
• Connects youth to health services
Vice Chairperson – Ward Development Committee
• Guides community members on CDF applications
• Facilitates community meetings and development planning
Focal Point Person – Tusole Theatre & Youth Friendly Association
• Coordinates youth programs and trainings
• Represents the organization at district level
________________________________________
Lessons & Growth
Through his journey, he has gained:
• Strong organizational and business management skills
• Experience in community engagement and participation tools
• Expertise in strategic planning and resource mobilization
• Practical knowledge in advocacy and development work
_______________________________________
Vision for the Future
In the next 5–10 years, Mike envisions himself:
• Working with a national organization driving development advocacy in Zambia
• Running a successful, legally compliant business to inspire young entrepreneurs
He also advocates for:
• Service-driven community organizations
• Lower costs and better systems for doing business in Zambia

Advice to Young People
“Stay committed to learning, be open to life’s challenges, and take responsibility for your mistakes. Growth comes from pushing yourself to be better every day.”
________________________________________
Skills & Expertise
• Training and facilitation
• Event program direction (4+ years experience)
• Proposal writing and report writing
• Research and documentation
• Computer literacy (Microsoft Office)
________________________________________
Fun Fact
Outside of work, he enjoys reading inspirational books and believes in planning ahead to balance life and responsibilities.

Address

Plot 24 Lechwe Park, Ibex Hill
Lusaka
10101

Opening Hours

Monday 08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday 08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday 08:00 - 17:00
Thursday 08:00 - 17:00
Friday 08:00 - 17:00

Telephone

+260977820640

Website

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