Zambia Rejects US Health and Minerals Deal Over Data Privacy Concerns
Zambia has halted negotiations on a US-funded health agreement due to concerns over data privacy and preferential treatment for US mining companies. Foreign Affairs Minister Mulambo Haimbe stated that the proposed pact included demands for citizens' data sharing, which violates privacy rights. Additionally, Zambia objected to linking the health agreement with a critical minerals deal, fearing it would give undue advantage to US companies. The US ambassador to Zambia, Michael Gonzales, denied these claims, asserting that the US would not withhold healthcare support for minerals. Zambia, a major copper producer, is wary of preferential treatment for US firms, especially given China's significant presence in its mining sector. 
