Health 3 June 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Archbishop Kaziimba Calls for National Health Insurance Financed by Oil Revenue
Archbishop Stephen Kaziimba of the Church of Uganda is urging the government to establish a national health insurance scheme, funded in part by oil and mineral revenues, to alleviate the financial burden of healthcare for vulnerable citizens. He highlighted the critical need for accessible and affordable treatment for chronic and life-threatening diseases, stating that healthcare should not be a luxury. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/archbishop-kaziimba-urges-govt-to-address-gaps-in-health-care-5483522
Archbishop Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu of the Church of Uganda has strongly advocated for the creation of a national health insurance scheme, suggesting that a portion of Uganda’s oil and mineral revenues should be earmarked for its funding. This initiative aims to provide crucial support for vulnerable citizens facing significant medical expenses.
During the Uganda Martyrs Day celebrations at Namugongo, Archbishop Kaziimba pointed out that numerous Ugandans suffer in silence due to their inability to afford treatment for serious illnesses such as cancer. He emphasized that access to healthcare should be a right, not a privilege reserved for the affluent.
The Archbishop implored the 12th Parliament to prioritize and expedite the introduction and passage of a National Health Insurance Bill. He identified affordable healthcare as one of the nation’s most pressing priorities, noting that recent disease outbreaks and the rising incidence of costly illnesses like cancer have starkly revealed deficiencies within the country’s healthcare system.
His call comes at a time when Uganda’s National Health Insurance Scheme has faced considerable delays and legislative hurdles, despite years of advocacy from various stakeholders. The Archbishop also extended his message to encompass calls for unity, reconciliation, and healing within Uganda, lamenting the country’s growing divisions along political, tribal, and religious lines.
Drawing inspiration from the legacy of the Uganda Martyrs, who were executed centuries ago for their faith, Archbishop Kaziimba urged Ugandans to reject hatred, discrimination, and tribalism. He highlighted the shared sacrifice of both Anglican and Catholic martyrs as a potent symbol of Christian unity and national cohesion.