Health ministry sets UHC agenda for 2026/27 budget

MWANZA: MINISTER for Health Mr Mohamed Mchengerwa has directed health sector stakeholders to ensure that the 2026/27 budget aligns with the national agenda for implementing Universal Health Coverage (UHC).

Mr Mchengerwa made the call over the weekend during the opening of the Ministry of Health’s Executive Council session in Mwanza, stressing the need for thorough preparation ahead of the rollout of the UHC Act.

“In the 2026/27 budget, our priorities must reflect the national direction. We must fully prepare for the implementation of the Universal Health Coverage Act. This is not just about issuing cards. It is about building system capacity. Infrastructure must be ready,” he said.

He stressed the need for strong health systems, including reliable IT infrastructure, availability of medicines, adequate human resources and functional medical equipment. He also underscored the importance of promoting local production of health commodities.

“A country that does not build capacity to produce its own medicines and medical equipment will remain vulnerable to price fluctuations, transport challenges and global shocks. Our procurement systems, including Medical Store Department (MSD), must strategically support locally produced goods without compromising quality,” he said.

The minister noted that the health sector has recorded notable progress in the 2025/26 financial year, including increasing the availability of essential medicines to an average of 73 per cent as of February 2026.

“We have also continued to reduce maternal mortality through investments in health centres, district hospitals, medical equipment and human resources. This is a shared achievement,” he added.

Mr Mchengerwa further called for greater attention to mental health services, noting that many individuals silently struggle despite appearing physically well.

“We must give mental health the attention it deserves. A person may appear fine physically, but be mentally overwhelmed,” he said.

He urged all health workers, from headquarters to referral hospitals and primary health facilities, to deliver services with professionalism and compassion.

“We will not tolerate unnecessary delays in service delivery, nor favouritism that undermines citizens’ rights,” he warned.

The minister also raised concerns over reports of abuse of power, intimidation, harassment and degrading treatment of junior staff in some facilities.

“We will strengthen reporting systems to address such complaints fairly, based on evidence and in accordance with the law. Every employee has the right to work in an environment of respect, safety and dignity,” he said.

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health, Dr Seif Shekalaghe, said the Executive Council session will review the direction of the 2026/27 budget with the aim of improving health services and staff welfare.

He added that the meeting will also assess the ministry’s performance over the past year, gather feedback on implementation of its mandates and adopt budget proposals intended to benefit Tanzanians.