Archbishop Kaziimba Advocates for National Health Insurance Funded by Oil Revenue

Archbishop Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu of the Church of Uganda has implored the government to consider dedicating a portion of the nation’s oil and mineral earnings to establish a robust national health insurance scheme. This initiative, he believes, would provide crucial support for vulnerable citizens and alleviate the significant financial strain medical expenses place on average Ugandan families.

During his address at the Uganda Martyrs Day celebrations in Namugongo, Archbishop Kaziimba highlighted the pervasive issue of many Ugandans suffering in silence due to the inability to afford treatment for critical and chronic illnesses such as cancer and other costly diseases. He stated emphatically that access to healthcare should not be a luxury reserved for the affluent.

The Archbishop issued a direct call to action for the 12th Parliament, urging them to promptly introduce and enact a National Health Insurance Bill. He described access to affordable healthcare as one of the most critical national priorities facing Uganda today.

His appeal comes at a time when the proposed National Health Insurance Scheme has been a subject of prolonged public discussion, having encountered numerous legislative and policy hurdles despite years of consistent advocacy from health professionals, civil society organizations, and religious leaders.

Beyond the critical need for improved healthcare access, Archbishop Kaziimba also stressed the importance of unity, reconciliation, and healing within Uganda, a nation he perceives as increasingly fragmented by political, tribal, and religious divides. Drawing inspiration from the sacrifice of the Uganda Martyrs, he encouraged citizens to reject hatred, discrimination, and tribalism, emulating the martyrs’ legacy of faith and unity. He pointed to the shared martyrdom and burial of both Anglican and Catholic martyrs at Namugongo as a potent symbol of Christian unity and national cohesion.