Reported by: The Agency Media.
Date: 16th June, 2025.
Lusaka, Zambia.
In a move aimed at bolstering Zambia’s progress toward Universal Health Coverage (UHC) the United Party for National Development (UPND) Health Sector Committee engaged the leadership of the National Health Insurance Management Authority (NHIMA) to assess operational strengths, identify gaps and explore areas of strategic support.
Led by Committee Chairperson Dr. Bob Sakahilu, the UPND delegation held a consultative meeting with NHIMA’s Board and Executive Management in Lusaka, reaffirming the governing party’s commitment to building a resilient, inclusive and accessible healthcare financing system.
Dr. Sakahilu praised NHIMA’s contribution to the health sector since its inception in 2019, describing it as a critical instrument for health equity and financial protection. “NHIMA has been a game changer,” he stated. “Its ability to leverage private healthcare providers to deliver services once considered out of reach for many Zambians is transformative. This is the kind of model that can carry us toward Universal Health Coverage.”
He further emphasized that the UPND administration recognizes the need to fortify institutions like NHIMA to make healthcare accessible and affordable, especially for vulnerable populations.
In his remarks, NHIMA Director General Mr. Michael Njapau expressed appreciation for the party’s proactive approach to institutional engagement. He highlighted that the Authority has registered over 5.3 million Zambians to date, thanks in part to its low cost premium model.
Mr. Njapau also noted that more than 400 private healthcare facilities have been accredited under NHIMA, predominantly in Lusaka, with expansion plans underway to achieve nationwide coverage. However, he pointed out a major concern, the slow uptake of the scheme within the formal sector, calling for concerted efforts to enhance stakeholder awareness and confidence.
“This kind of political support is crucial. NHIMA is positioned to serve all Zambians, but we need more collaborative strategies to improve enrollment, service delivery and public trust,” Njapau said.
The meeting concluded with a commitment from both sides to strengthen policy frameworks and public-private partnerships that will reinforce NHIMA’s operational efficiency and reach. The UPND Health Committee pledged to relay the feedback to higher party structures and advocate for increased investment in social health insurance mechanisms as a pillar of national development.

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NHIMA (Health Insurance) Zambia Discussions
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