In the face of Zambia’s ongoing cholera outbreak, the Global Health Corps (GHC) Zambian alumni community swiftly mobilized to support affected communities and frontline health workers. Recognizing the urgency of the crisis, alumni launched the GHC Cholera Emergency Response, a grassroots initiative focused on public awareness, hygiene promotion, and direct resource distribution.
Last week, alumni volunteers engaged directly with 480 households in Kanyama and Gorge communities in Lusaka—areas hit hard by the outbreak. They provided families with essential hygiene supplies, including chlorine and handwashing soap, to help curb the spread of infection. In addition to distributing materials, alumni facilitated community education sessions, sharing critical information on cholera prevention and treatment through brochures available in both English and local languages. By prioritizing clear, accessible communication, they ensured that families had the knowledge needed to protect themselves and their neighbors.
Beyond community outreach, the GHC Zambian alumni also took action to support healthcare facilities on the frontlines of the outbreak. Understanding the immense strain on health workers, they coordinated the donation of personal protective equipment to safeguard those treating cholera patients. Their efforts extended further through a partnership with Common Wellbeing, which enabled the donation of eight cholera beds and other essential medical supplies to Ngwerere Rural Health Center in Chongwe District. These resources are critical to ensuring that health workers can continue providing lifesaving care while maintaining their own safety.
The cholera emergency response is a testament to the power of collective leadership and the lasting impact of GHC’s alumni network. Even years after completing their fellowships, GHC alumni remain dedicated to leveraging their expertise, networks, and leadership skills to address pressing health challenges in their communities. Their rapid, coordinated response exemplifies the role of community-driven action in strengthening public health systems.
The work of the GHC Zambian alumni highlights a core tenet of GHC’s vision: health equity requires sustained leadership and proactive engagement. By mobilizing resources, advocating for hygiene practices, and reinforcing health system capacity, alumni are making an immediate difference in the fight against cholera while also promoting long-term resilience against future outbreaks.
At GHC, we are proud to see our alumni continue to embody the principles of servant leadership, collaboration, and innovation. Their commitment to advancing health equity is a reminder that transformative change happens when leaders step up—especially in times of crisis.