Welcome Address

Professor Victor Chalwe

Conference Co-Chairperson

Director & CEO(NHRA)

Welcome to the 12th Zambia Health Research Conference (ZHRC) 2026

It is my great pleasure to welcome you to the 12th Edition of the Zambia Health Research Conference (ZHRC), scheduled to take place from 3–5 November 2026 in Livingstone, Zambia.

The Zambia Health Research Conference, convened by NHRA, a wing of the Ministry of Health, the ZHRC serves as a premier platform for promoting the generation, dissemination, and utilization of health research evidence to inform policy, practice, and decision-making. Held biennially, the conference continues to grow as a dynamic hybrid international forum, attracting thousands of researchers, scientists, health professionals, policymakers, academia, civil society, and cooperating partners from across the globe.

The ZHRC provides a unique opportunity to share research findings, best practices, and innovative solutions aimed at improving health outcomes and addressing pressing public health challenges. These include pandemics, climate change, antimicrobial resistance, and the evolving landscape of global health financing – issues that increasingly transcend national boundaries.

This year, we convene under the theme: “Closing the Evidence–Action Gap for Resilient Health Systems.” This theme underscores our commitment to moving beyond knowledge generation toward meaningful action. The ZHRC is not merely a scientific meeting; it is a catalyst for coordinated responses at global, national, and local levels to address persistent gaps between evidence and implementation.

Global evidence indicates that up to 85% of health research is underutilized or wasted, often due to limitations in design, accessibility, dissemination, and translation into policy and practice. Bridging this gap is not optional; it is imperative. We must ensure that research informs real-world decisions and contributes to improved health outcomes for all.

The 12th ZHRC represents more than a conference, it is a collective movement to strengthen evidence use and advance Universal Health Coverage through collaboration and shared accountability. It also provides an opportunity to reflect on how countries and their partners can lead in developing context-specific, scalable, and sustainable solutions.

I invite you to actively engage, collaborate, and contribute to shaping the future of health through evidence-informed action.

We look forward to your participation.

Why and Who Should Attend the 12th Zambia Health Research Conference?

Why Attend?

Participate in a high-impact event that offers real value for your work, career, and network:

• • Present your Research
• • Network with global experts & institutions
• • Gain visibility & exciting collaboration opportunities
• • Influence health policy & on-the-ground practice
• • Acquire cutting-edge knowledge that drives real impact
• • Experience the beauty of Livingstone & Victoria Falls

Who Should Attend?

This conference is designed for a diverse audience passionate about strengthening health systems and communities through evidence-based solutions, hence it invites:

• • Researchers and Academicians
• • Policymakers and Government Officials
• • Health Professionals and Students
• • Non-Health Professionals
• • Corporating Partners and Donors
• • Non-Governmental and Civil Society Organizations
• • General public / Non-experts

Special Features of the 12th Zambia Health Research Conference

Keynote Speakers

Listen to world-renowned experts delivering inspiring addresses on resilient health systems and the future of health research.

Plenary Sessions

Listen to structured high-level panel discussions featuring leading researchers, policymakers, and global health leaders.

Side Events and Exhibitions

Experience interactive networking opportunities through organized side events and sponsored exhibitions.

Award Presentations

Celebrate outstanding individuals/researchers and organizations who have made significant strides to advancing health research.

Abstract Presentations

The conference serves as a platform for participants to both submit and listen to scientific or best practice abstracts, which may be presented as either oral or poster presentations.

Presentation Formats

1. Oral Presentations

Listen to engaging research presentations or take the stage to present your work and share insights with a diverse audience of experts and peers.

2. Poster Presentations

Explore innovative research through interactive poster displays or present your own work and connect with attendees through meaningful discussions.

Submit Your Abstract By Clicking Here