Schools in Zambian Shut for Three More Weeks Due to Cholera

Zambia’s schools will remain closed for three weeks after the festive holidays, causing a delayed start to the academic year.

The Ministry of Education announced that primary and secondary students will resume classes on January 29. The cholera outbreak, which began in October 2023, has resulted in 3,015 confirmed cases and 98 fatalities, raising concerns about the nation’s health security.

Zambia’s education minister has issued directives to ensure the safety of students and staff upon their return, emphasizing the need for thorough cleaning, clean water and sanitation facilities, adequate handwashing points, and disinfectants.

This proactive approach aims to mitigate the risk of further cholera transmission within educational settings.