Tanzania announces a target of 25m beneficiaries of its UHS scheme by mid-2027
DODOMA: THE Tanzanian government aims to increase the number of Tanzanians benefiting from Universal Health Insurance (UHI) to 25 million by June 2027 as part of efforts to expand access to healthcare and protect citizens from the financial burden of medical expenses.
Health Minister Mohamed Mchengerwa announced the target while addressing MPs during a seminar on the implementation of the second phase of the Universal Health Insurance programme held in Parliament in Dodoma.
He said the second phase, which began on October 22, 2026, seeks to enrol citizens who can afford to pay for their health insurance while maintaining government-funded coverage for those who cannot afford the premiums.
Mr Mchengerwa said the government had introduced the FAHARI AFYA health insurance package at a cost of 150,000/- per household comprising up to six members.
“Through this package, beneficiaries can access healthcare services ranging from dispensaries to the National Hospital, subject to the established referral procedures,” he said.
ALSO READ: NHIF awards MSD for spearheading success of the Universal Health Insurance Programme
He emphasised that the programme does not mean every Tanzanian would receive free health insurance, explaining that citizens with the financial capacity would be required to contribute towards insurance coverage for themselves and their families, while the government would continue financing coverage for vulnerable groups.
The minister further said successful implementation of the programme required cooperation among leaders at all levels of government, particularly MPs, in providing accurate information to the public about the importance and benefits of enrolling in health insurance schemes.
Mr Mchengerwa said the programme’s success reflected the Sixth Phase Government’s commitment, under President Samia Suluhu Hassan, to ensuring citizens access quality healthcare services and safeguarding the welfare of their families.
