First Deputy Prime Minister Rebecca Kadaga has urged Parliament, particularly newly elected legislators, to prioritise and fast-track the National Health Insurance Bill, describing it as critical to delivering affordable healthcare to all Ugandans.
Kadaga made the remarks during a burial ceremony in Kamuli District, where she highlighted the persistent challenges faced by citizens who struggle to access quality medical services due to high costs. She said enactment of the bill would help reduce preventable deaths and ease the financial burden on families.
“The National Health Insurance Bill is not just a policy; it is a lifeline for Ugandans who cannot afford medical treatment. Parliament must prioritise it to save lives,” Kadaga said.
The proposed National Health Insurance Scheme seeks to provide comprehensive health coverage financed through contributions from both the formal and informal sectors. Uganda’s healthcare system currently relies heavily on out-of-pocket payments, with health insurance coverage estimated at less than one per cent of the population.
Kadaga recalled that Parliament passed the bill during her tenure as Speaker, but it was later rejected by Cabinet instead of being returned for amendments. She urged the new legislators to revisit and pass the legislation, arguing that continued delays leave many Ugandans vulnerable to catastrophic health expenditures.
The scheme is aligned with Uganda’s broader goal of achieving universal health coverage by expanding access to essential health services and protecting households from high medical costs.
Parliament is expected to resume debate on the bill in the coming weeks amid growing public demand for affordable healthcare solutions.
