LUKUMAY CHAMPIONS UNIVERSAL HEALTH COVERAGE: HEALTH INSURANCE IS NOT A SLOGAN, BUT A FUNDAMENTAL RIGHT
By Joseph Ngilisho – ARUSHA
The Chairperson of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Health, Dr. Johannes Lukumay, has called on the Government to fast-track reforms in Tanzania’s health sector, stressing that Universal Health Coverage (UHC) is neither a statistical exercise nor a political slogan, but a fundamental right of every Tanzanian to access quality healthcare regardless of economic status.
Dr. Lukumay made the remarks today, January 26, 2026, in Arusha during the launch of a digital communication system linking citizens directly with the Minister for Health. The event was held at Mount Meru Referral Hospital and was officially inaugurated by the Minister for Health, Mr. Mohamed Mchengerwa.
Speaking emphatically, Dr. Lukumay—who is also the Member of Parliament for Arumeru West—said the implementation of Universal Health Insurance must be reflected in practical action rather than rhetoric. He emphasized the need to ensure timely, high-quality and barrier-free healthcare services, particularly for vulnerable groups including poor households, children under five, pregnant women, the elderly and citizens living in difficult conditions.
“The mind of a Tanzanian cannot ignore this critical issue of Universal Health Insurance. Its true meaning is to ensure that every citizen, regardless of income, receives quality healthcare without discrimination or humiliation,” said Dr. Lukumay.
Addressing his message directly to the Minister for Health, Dr. Lukumay underscored that the health of citizens is the engine of productivity, social welfare and national economic development, warning that no development vision can be achieved without a healthy population.
“Honourable Minister, your responsibility is immense. Health is the pillar of national development. Without healthy citizens, we cannot achieve our economic and social goals,” he emphasized.
He added that the vision of President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan is to ensure that every Tanzanian, wherever they are, accesses quality healthcare—adding that this is the Tanzania the nation aspires to, where patients do not suffer due to lack of treatment and the poor are not discriminated against.
In his address, Dr. Lukumay did not shy away from highlighting persistent challenges facing the health sector, including shortages of essential medical equipment such as X-ray machines, delays in the disbursement of approved funds, and underutilization of health projects and pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities.
He cited concerns over the management of a Sh6.6 billion budget, including delays in the release of Sh1.5 billion earmarked for services targeting children with special needs, a situation that continues to deny intended beneficiaries access to quality care.
“There is no justification for purchasing expensive machines that remain idle or non-functional. Citizens need services, not locked buildings or unused equipment,” he stressed.
According to Dr. Lukumay, investment in the health sector delivers benefits far beyond medical treatment, as it stimulates employment, strengthens the economy and reduces suffering among citizens.
“Investors and visitors may come and go, but true development begins with healthy citizens,” he said.
In concluding his remarks, Dr. Lukumay urged the Minister for Health to ensure health facilities are adequately equipped, medical machines function properly and citizens receive timely services without unnecessary inconvenience.
He also commended Minister Mchengerwa for initiating the digital communication system between citizens and the Ministry of Health, noting that the platform will enhance transparency, accountability and direct public participation in improving healthcare services.
“When the Government, the ruling party and citizens work together, we can completely transform the lives of Tanzanians,” Dr. Lukumay concluded.
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