Zambia Health Registry Goes Digital
By Francis Maingaila ♥️
Lusaka, Zambia24 --- (15-05-2026) --- The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) has handed over digital equipment to the Government of the Republic of Zambia to support the digitalisation of the Ministry of Health Registry Unit and improve records management systems.
Mr Broekman said the ministry has for many years relied on paper-based systems, which have led to challenges in document storage, retrieval, and information flow.
He noted that physical records are also vulnerable to loss, damage, and deterioration over time, making it difficult to maintain efficient administrative systems.
He said the equipment handed over includes a high-speed document scanner with Optical Character Recognition (OCR) technology and multifunction colour printers.
He explained that the scanner will convert physical files into searchable digital records, while OCR technology will enhance indexing, storage, and retrieval of documents.
Mr Broekman said the equipment is expected to improve workflow efficiency, reduce processing time, strengthen data protection, and enhance accountability through controlled access systems. He added that it will also improve audit readiness within the Ministry of Health.
He further stated that the initiative aligns with the Government of Zambia’s broader digital transformation agenda and the UNFPA–Government of Zambia Ninth Country Programme, which focuses on strengthening data systems and institutional capacity.
Mr Broekman emphasised that reliable and timely access to information is critical for evidence-based planning, decision-making, and effective healthcare delivery.
He warned that weak records management systems often result in administrative delays that negatively affect service delivery and accountability.
He reaffirmed UNFPA’s commitment to supporting Zambia in building strong systems that enhance healthcare delivery and institutional performance, while commending the Ministry of Health for its leadership in driving institutional transformation.
He said the equipment would significantly improve records management, accountability, and efficiency in service delivery within the Ministry of Health.
Dr Katakwe said the Government of the Republic of Zambia, under President Hakainde Hichilema, has placed digital transformation at the centre of the national development agenda, particularly in public service delivery.
He said this commitment is reflected in the National Digital Health Strategy (2022–2026), which provides a roadmap for strengthening health systems through technology, improving quality of care, and ensuring equitable access to services.
The minister said Zambia has already made progress through the rollout of electronic health record systems, laboratory information systems, and the Hermes electronic logistics management information system, which is improving the management of medical commodities from central warehouses to health facilities.
He further noted that the Ministry of Health, in collaboration with Cabinet Office, Smart Zambia, and cooperating partners, has developed a government-owned Human Resource Management Information System being rolled out across ministries.
Dr Katakwe also highlighted the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy as evidence of Zambia’s commitment to becoming a regional leader in digital governance and innovation.
He stressed that digitising the registry system is critical, as paper-based systems often result in missing files, delays, and inefficiencies that negatively impact service delivery.
He said the newly donated computers, scanner, and multifunction printer will improve administrative accountability, strengthen audit readiness, and enable faster retrieval of critical records.
The minister urged registry staff to embrace the new digital systems with professionalism and integrity, warning against deliberate misplacement of files for personal gain.
He said the digital transformation of records management will help eliminate challenges where patients and health workers are forced to travel repeatedly due to missing files.
Dr Katakwe officially received the equipment on behalf of the Government of Zambia and thanked UNFPA and cooperating partners for their continued support in strengthening Zambia’s health system.
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