Morocco's Minister of Economy, Finance, and Public Performance, Fouzi Lekjaa, announced that the government will revamp its social aid system, aiming to improve the targeting of direct social aid and access to medical coverage. The new approach will be discussed with parliamentarians. Lekjaa detailed the planned adjustments, including the gradual integration of income into the eligibility index calculation and strengthening the role of public hospitals in the healthcare system.
The current eligibility index has been instrumental in allowing the government to shift from an evaluation based on administrative attestations to one based on household expenditures. However, Lekjaa noted that the index has limitations, automatically excluding households from aid when they face unexpected or exceptional expenses. This has led to the development of a new approach that aims to address these shortcomings and provide more effective support to those in need.
The government currently provides a minimum of 500 dirhams to four million households. Considering inflation and other economic pressures, the executive plans to gradually increase this amount to 600 dirhams in the first year and 1,000 dirhams. Lekjaa emphasized the importance of encouraging households to enter the workforce, ensuring that aid does not become a disincentive to work. The government is open to extending the duration of the aid program if necessary.
Regarding the mandatory basic health insurance (AMO), Lekjaa highlighted the difference between registration and actual access to benefits. While 89% of the population, or 32.7 million people, are registered, only 28.6 million, or 78% of the 36 million population, have open rights. Lekjaa noted that 4.1 million registered individuals have had their rights suspended due to non-payment of contributions, and 4.1 million others are not affiliated with any regime.
Lekjaa stressed the need to address these situations based on the contributory capacity of the individuals concerned, while revising databases and verifying the accuracy of numbers. He also emphasized that access to medical coverage should be accompanied by effective access to healthcare services. The minister aims to increase the share of public hospitals in the healthcare system, currently below 10%, to at least 50%.
The role of territorial health groups (GST) was also highlighted, as they will provide a framework for doctors to practice in an expanded territorial space. Lekjaa expressed his commitment to ensuring that the healthcare system functions effectively, with a focus on supporting citizens and promoting economic integration.
The planned changes to the social aid system are part of the government's efforts to enhance social protection and support economic growth. The 2027 budget bill, which includes these proposals, aims to balance financial commitments with economic realities. Lekjaa's announcement has sparked discussions on the potential impact of these changes on the country's social welfare and healthcare systems.
Key points
- The Moroccan government plans to adjust its social aid system, focusing on improving access to medical coverage and adjusting eligibility criteria.
- The new approach aims to address the limitations of the current eligibility index and provide more effective support to those in need.
- The government plans to increase the minimum aid amount to 1,000 dirhams and strengthen the role of public hospitals in the healthcare system.
