The Tanzanian government has set a target of 25 million beneficiaries for its Universal Health Insurance (UHI) scheme by June 2027. This initiative aims to expand access to healthcare and protect citizens from the financial burden of medical expenses. Health Minister Mohamed Mchengerwa announced the target during a seminar on the implementation of the second phase of the UHI programme in Dodoma.
The second phase of the UHI programme, which began on October 22, 2026, focuses on enrolling citizens who can afford to pay for their health insurance. The government will continue to fund coverage for those who cannot afford the premiums. The minister introduced the FAHARI AFYA health insurance package, which costs 150,000/- per household of up to six members. Beneficiaries can access healthcare services from dispensaries to the National Hospital, subject to established referral procedures.
Minister Mchengerwa emphasized that the programme does not provide free health insurance to every Tanzanian. Citizens with financial capacity will be required to contribute to insurance coverage for themselves and their families. The government will continue to finance coverage for vulnerable groups. The minister stressed the importance of cooperation among leaders at all levels of government, particularly MPs, in providing accurate information to the public about the programme.
The success of the programme reflects the Sixth Phase Government's commitment, under President Samia Suluhu Hassan, to ensuring citizens access quality healthcare services and safeguarding their families' welfare. The minister highlighted the importance of public awareness and cooperation in achieving the programme's goals. The government aims to protect citizens from financial hardship due to medical expenses.
The FAHARI AFYA health insurance package is a key component of the programme. It provides affordable healthcare services to citizens who can afford to pay for their insurance. The package covers healthcare services from dispensaries to the National Hospital, subject to established referral procedures. This initiative is expected to increase access to healthcare services for many Tanzanians.
The programme's success depends on cooperation among stakeholders, including leaders at all levels of government and the public. Minister Mchengerwa urged MPs to provide accurate information to the public about the importance and benefits of enrolling in health insurance schemes. The government is committed to ensuring citizens access quality healthcare services.
The Universal Health Insurance programme is a significant step towards achieving universal healthcare coverage in Tanzania. The government's target of 25 million beneficiaries by June 2027 is ambitious, but achievable with cooperation and commitment from all stakeholders. The programme will improve access to healthcare services and protect citizens from financial hardship due to medical expenses.
Key points
- The Tanzanian government aims to increase the number of citizens benefiting from Universal Health Insurance to 25 million by June 2027.
- The second phase of the programme focuses on enrolling citizens who can afford to pay for their health insurance.
- The FAHARI AFYA health insurance package costs 150,000/- per household of up to six members.
