Archbishop Kaziimba Urges Government to Address Healthcare Gaps Through National Insurance Scheme
By Skika Reporter.
The Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, The Most Rev. Dr. Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu, has called on the government to establish a sustainable national health insurance system and dedicate part of Uganda’s oil and mineral revenues to improving healthcare access for vulnerable citizens.
Speaking during the Uganda Martyrs Day celebrations at the Namugongo Anglican Martyrs Site on Wednesday, Archbishop Kaziimba said many Ugandans continue to struggle to access treatment for chronic and life-threatening illnesses due to the high cost of healthcare.
He noted that diseases such as cancer and other serious medical conditions have exposed significant weaknesses in Uganda’s healthcare system, leaving many families burdened by expensive medical bills.
“We need to continue establishing national health insurance in Uganda. I request Parliament to come up with a bill for national health insurance,” Archbishop Kaziimba said.
The Archbishop appealed to Uganda’s 12th Parliament to prioritise and pass a National Health Insurance Bill, describing affordable healthcare as one of the country’s most urgent national concerns.
He further proposed that a portion of revenues generated from Uganda’s oil and mineral resources be ring-fenced to finance the scheme, arguing that the country’s natural wealth should directly benefit citizens by improving access to essential healthcare services.
“Many Ugandans are suffering silently because they cannot afford treatment. Healthcare should not be a privilege reserved for those with financial means,” he said.
His remarks come amid ongoing public debate over the delayed implementation of Uganda’s National Health Insurance Scheme, which has faced several legislative and policy hurdles despite years of advocacy from health professionals, civil society organisations and religious leaders.
Beyond healthcare, Archbishop Kaziimba used the occasion to call for national unity, reconciliation and healing, warning that political, tribal and religious divisions continue to undermine social cohesion.
Drawing lessons from the Uganda Martyrs, who were executed more than 140 years ago for refusing to renounce their Christian faith, he urged Ugandans to reject hatred, discrimination and tribalism.
The Archbishop emphasized that both Anglican and Catholic martyrs suffered and died together, describing their shared sacrifice as a lasting symbol of Christian unity and national harmony.
Speaking under the theme, “Christ Our Peace: Breaking Walls, Healing the Nations,” Archbishop Kaziimba encouraged citizens to embrace dialogue, forgiveness and mutual respect as the country works toward a more peaceful and inclusive future.
