Moroccan Health and Social Protection Minister Youns Belkaji presented the ministry's 2027 budget to the House of Representatives' Social Sectors Committee on November 5. The proposed budget outlines key reforms aimed at restoring public trust in the national healthcare system, particularly in public hospitals. The plan focuses on improving the quality of care, reducing wait times, and ensuring continuity of treatment.
The proposed budget for the Ministry of Health and Social Protection stands at 45.36 billion dirham, marking a 3 billion dirham increase from 2026. The budget also includes the creation of 8,000 new financial positions to bolster human resources, with 2,600 allocated to newly established territorial health groups.
Minister Belkaji announced that the proposed budget will be supplemented by additional allocations, the size of which will be determined once technical audits are completed. This reflects the government's commitment to supporting healthcare reform and providing necessary resources to accelerate projects with a direct impact on citizens.
The budget allocates 14.49 billion dirham for investment, including 6.14 billion dirham for building, renovating, and equipping hospital facilities, representing a 61% increase from 2026. Investment subsidies for territorial health groups will also rise to 1 billion dirham, supporting regional needs and reducing territorial disparities.
As part of the reforms, a new university hospital center will be established in Casablanca, addressing the needs of the region's population and demographic pressure. Additionally, two regional hospital centers in Settat and Kenitra will be upgraded to university hospital centers, bringing high-level care closer to local populations and providing spaces for clinical training and hospital internships.
The minister emphasized the importance of ensuring continuity of the national drug supply, anticipating risks of shortages and disruptions, and supporting national production of medicines, vaccines, and strategic products. The project allocates 2 billion dirham to the Central Pharmacy's special account, while establishing integrated regional management of public hospital drug stocks.
The reforms also prioritize prevention, early detection, and epidemiological vigilance, as well as preparedness for health emergencies. With these measures, Morocco aims to strengthen its healthcare system, improve services, and reduce dependence on external sources.
Key points
- The 2027 healthcare budget focuses on restoring public trust in the national healthcare system.
- The budget allocates 45.36 billion dirham for healthcare reforms, including investments in hospital facilities and human resources.
- New hospital centers will be established or upgraded to improve access to high-level care and clinical training.
