Strengthening public health intelligence in Zambia: A field epidemiology and one health approach in Northwestern Province

Kalumbila, Northwestern Province – Zambia | 1 July 2025

On 1 July 2025, Kalumbila District in Northwestern Province hosted a milestone event celebrating Zambia’s progress in field epidemiology and multisectoral data-driven public health. The Zambia National Public Health Institute (ZNPHI), the Ministry of Health, and the Global Fund came together to commend ongoing efforts to enhance surveillance capacity, cross-sectoral collaboration, and evidence-based health responses during the graduation ceremony of the 28th cohort of the Frontline Field Epidemiology Training Program (FETP).

The 18 graduating fellows join a growing network of 576 frontline professionals trained since the program’s inception in 2015—primarily from the human health sector, with increasing representation from the animal health sector. The Frontline FETP, led by ZNPHI, is a cornerstone of Zambia’s strategy to build a skilled and agile public health workforce capable of early detection and response to health threats.

Delivering the keynote address, Mr. Paul Simujayangombe, Global Fund Project Coordinator, emphasized the transformative impact of the FETP. “This is just the beginning,” he remarked. “As you return to your districts, remember that data saves lives when it is timely, accurate, and translated into action. Let that be your legacy—evidence-driven action that protects the health of our people.”

Professor Roma Chilengi, Director General of ZNPHI, applauded the field-based investigations undertaken by the fellows. These included analyses of data quality, assessments of surveillance system timeliness using the 7-1-7 framework, and responses to outbreaks such as rabies and porcine cysticercosis. He highlighted the critical role of these projects in fulfilling ZNPHI’s mandate as a center of excellence in public health.

Professor Chilengi further advised the FETP leadership to systematically compile and review all project reports, extracting key findings to inform policy and strengthen national and subnational health systems. He emphasized the urgent need to address data quality issues identified through Data Quality Assessments (DQAs), stating, “Reliable and representative data are the foundation for effective public health action and evidence-based policymaking.”

He also underscored the importance of adopting the One Health approach—integrating human, animal, and environmental health systems—as essential to addressing emerging public health threats.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Luckson Chidikita, Provincial Health Director for Northwestern Province, extended his congratulations to the fellows and expressed gratitude to the Global Fund for its continued support. He noted the critical need to expand FETP training across the province and encouraged stronger collaboration with clinical teams to address surveillance gaps identified during the residents’ fieldwork. Dr. Chidikita called on the Provincial Epidemiologist to ensure timely communication of all public health threats and praised the instrumental role played by epidemiologists in responding to recent outbreaks, including Mpox.

The event served not only to honor the graduating residents but also to reaffirm Zambia’s commitment to strengthening public health through data, training, and cross-sectoral coordination—foundations for a resilient health system responsive to current and emerging threats.