The Namibian government has approved the Policy on Universal Health Coverage (UHC) to ensure all citizens can access healthcare services without financial hardship.
The policy, submitted by the Minister of Health and Social Services, aims to provide equitable healthcare access across the country, regardless of location or financial status.
“Cabinet approved the Policy on Universal Health Coverage for Namibia, with the main objective to ensure that all Namibians in all parts of the country are able to access the healthcare they need at all times without suffering financial catastrophe,” the Cabinet Decisions of the 2nd (2025) Decision-Making meeting stated.
Following the approval, several ministries according the Cabinet decisions , have been tasked with developing a framework for implementing and funding the policy.
The Ministry of Works and Transport according to Cabinet, designated as the convener, will work alongside the Ministry of Health and Social Services, the Ministry of Finance and Public Enterprises, and the National Planning Commission to draft a comprehensive plan.
The inter-ministerial committee has also been authorized to engage other relevant stakeholders as needed.
“Cabinet further directed the Ministries of Works and Transport (Convener); Health and Social Services; Finance and Public Enterprises; and the National Planning Commission to develop implementation and funding modalities for the above-mentioned Policy and submit a report to Cabinet for endorsement. The Inter-Ministerial Committee may co-opt any other relevant stakeholder(s),” the statement added.
According to government data, more than 92% of Namibia’s population lives within 10 kilometres of a healthcare facility, improving access to essential medical services, particularly in rural areas.
Budget allocations to healthcare have consistently exceeded the Abuja Declaration target of 15%, with Namibia dedicating over 16% of its national budget to health. As a result, out-of-pocket healthcare expenditure remains low at just 8%, significantly below the global threshold of concern.
Namibia currently has 1,150 outreach points, 27 primary clinics, 44 health centres, 30 district hospitals, and only five referral hospitals, as per the ministerial statistics.
