This renewed focus comes amid concerning national health indicators revealed in the latest sector performance report.
KAMPALA, Uganda – The Government of Uganda, through the Ministry of Health, has announced a pivotal initiative to establish a National Health Insurance Scheme, designed to provide a critical safety net for citizens, particularly those from low-income households.
The landmark plan, presented by Permanent Secretary Dr Diana Atwine, was detailed during the 31st Annual Health Sector Joint Review Meeting in Kampala. Dr Atwine emphasised that with the conclusion of the 2026 electoral cycle, the Ministry is prioritising the long-delayed insurance scheme and will soon present a finalised cabinet memo for approval.
Addressing the nation's health priorities, Dr Atwine outlined a strategic focus on three core areas: improving care for patients, enhancing working conditions for health workers, and strengthening overall health service delivery.
This renewed focus comes amid concerning national health indicators revealed in the latest sector performance report.
Alarming Statistics Reveal Service Gaps
The report, which reviewed all public health facilities across the country, paints a stark picture of regional disparities in healthcare quality. Key findings include:
A national health worker vacancy rate of 34%.
A persistent rise in maternal mortality, with the ratio now standing at 189 deaths per 100,000 live births.
Significant variance in district performance, with some areas excelling and others severely lagging.
The Ministry identified districts demonstrating exemplary service delivery, including Kiruhura, Bundibugyo, Mbale, Lira City, Bududa, and Bunyangabu.
Conversely, districts requiring urgent intervention were listed as Arua, Soroti, Butebo, Hoima, Bukomansimbi, Buvuma, Kisoro, and Kirenga.
Within the Buganda region, Bukomansimbi was singled out for notably poor performance, followed by Buvuma. Other areas such as Masaka City, Kalangala, Nakasongola, Wakiso, and Lwengo, were also reported to have underperformed against set benchmarks.
A Call for Systemic Reform
The presentation underscored the urgent need for systemic investment and reform. The proposed National Health Insurance Scheme is positioned as a foundational step toward achieving universal health coverage, reducing catastrophic out-of-pocket expenditures, and incentivising improvements in service quality across all regions.
The Ministry now awaits cabinet deliberation on the proposal, marking a potential turning point in Uganda's pursuit of equitable and sustainable healthcare for all its citizens.
