ABSTRACT:
Zambia’s National Health Research Authority developed its 2022-2026 National Health Research Agenda using a robust, consultative process that offers a model for other LMICs. Historically, Zambia faced fragmented and unsustainable priority-setting. To overcome this, the NHRA conducted a desk review and gap analysis, then adapted global methodologies (CHNRI, Delphi, CAM) using 15 local criteria like equity and affordability. Over 30 diverse stakeholders from government, academia, and partner agencies participated through iterative consultations and a final consensus workshop. The outcome is a prioritized agenda organized into thematic areas: public health (e.g., malaria, maternal health), health systems (e.g., financing), and emerging issues (e.g., climate change). It translates national strategic goals into specific research questions. Crucially, the process fostered strong stakeholder ownership and consensus, addressing previous fragmentation. Zambia’s experience proves that a systematic, transparent, and highly consultative approach, adapting global tools to local context, is feasible in LMICs. This ensures the agenda is both scientifically rigorous and politically relevant, enhancing its implementation, resource mobilization, and potential health impact.