Health 18 October 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Archbishop Kazimba Advocates for National Health Insurance Funded by Natural Resources
Archbishop Stephen Samuel Kazimba Mugalu has called on the Ugandan government to establish a national health insurance scheme, suggesting that revenues from natural resources could fund it. He emphasized the need for better healthcare access to reduce premature deaths. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/archbishop-kazimba-pushes-for-national-health-insurance-scheme-5636840
Archbishop Stephen Samuel Kazimba Mugalu of the Church of Uganda has urged the government to implement a national health insurance scheme, citing the preventable deaths of many Ugandans due to a lack of timely medical care. During a farewell service at Soroti Cathedral, Archbishop Kazimba suggested that the nation’s natural resources, such as minerals and oil, could be a viable source of funding for such a scheme.
He expressed deep concern over the high frequency of funeral services, lamenting that many of these losses could be averted with improved access to healthcare. The Archbishop also advised Ugandans to take personal responsibility for their well-being through mindful eating and regular physical activity. He encouraged incorporating exercise into daily routines, even during leisure time.
Beyond health, Archbishop Kazimba cautioned Christians against compromising their faith for financial gain or seeking spiritual guidance from unconventional sources like witch doctors. He stressed the importance of steadfastness in faith, referencing biblical passages.
Responding to the call for national health insurance, Vice President Jessica Alupo pledged to convey the proposal to the President’s office for consideration. She also encouraged politicians to advocate for development and urged the public to engage with government programs. President Museveni, in a message read by the Vice President, stressed the need to eliminate poverty through income-generating activities and urged religious leaders to promote profitable enterprises among their congregations.
Local leaders, including Soroti City East MP Moses Attan, also voiced support for addressing the concerns of medical personnel and improving healthcare infrastructure, specifically mentioning the rehabilitation of Soroti Regional Referral Hospital.