Health Minister outlines key priorities for new NHIF board
Health minister Jenister Mhagama speaks during the inauguration of the sixth NHIF board in Dodoma on January 21, 2025. PHOTO | COURTESY
What you need to know:
- Ms Mhagama underscored the government’s commitment to the health sector, revealing that Sh8.9 trillion has been invested in training healthcare professionals and upgrading infrastructure under the sixth-phase administration.
Dodoma. Health minister Jenister Mhagama has outlined three critical priorities for the newly inaugurated National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) board of directors, urging them to act swiftly and decisively in delivering reforms that will benefit Tanzanians.
Speaking yesterday during the inauguration of the sixth NHIF board, Ms Mhagama emphasised the need to expedite the implementation of the Universal Health Insurance Law, a policy eagerly being awaited by the public.
“You have a major task to ensure that the Universal Health Insurance Law is in place as quickly as possible. I believe this can be achieved within six months,” she said.
She also called on the board to protect the fund’s existing achievements and move beyond prolonged planning phases, urging them to deliver results efficiently and professionally. She highlighted the need for urgency in addressing NHIF challenges, saying; “I have often lost sleep over NHIF matters. I now expect employees and the board to work with speed and efficiency, unlike the slow pace of the past.”
The board, chaired by Mr Eliud Sanga, comprises Ms Zubeda Chande, Prof George Ruhago, Prof Kaushik Ramaiya, Ms Veronica Kishula, Mr Dickson Kaambwa, Mr Shaaban Kabunga, and Mr Armoury Amoury. The minister tasked the team with improving NHIF operations and ensuring that reforms directly impact citizens.
Ms Mhagama underscored the government’s commitment to the health sector, revealing that Sh8.9 trillion has been invested in training healthcare professionals and upgrading infrastructure under the sixth-phase administration.
NHIF director general Irene Isaka highlighted the fund’s improved financial position, reporting a shift from a Sh47 billion deficit six months ago to nearly Sh111 billion in reserves by November 2024.
Additionally, the time taken to settle claims has been reduced from 120 days to an average of 60 days, with the goal of maintaining a 45-day standard.
The board chairperson Mr Eliud Sanga pledged to act on the government’s directives but requested time to collaborate with other board members to develop a strategic implementation plan.
He also emphasised the need for cooperation from stakeholders and institutions, reassuring Tanzanians of the board’s commitment to achieving its objectives.
