Ouagadougou: The Prime Minister of Burkina Faso, Dr. Apollinaire Joachimson Kyélem of Tambèla, has taken a significant step by enrolling in the country’s universal health insurance scheme. He called upon the Burkinabè populace to follow his lead and subscribe to the health insurance, emphasizing that health is invaluable.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the Prime Minister highlighted that although the contribution rate might initially appear steep to some citizens, it is an essential investment in their health and that of their families. Dr. Kyélem of Tambèla assured that the contribution rates would be subject to review over time, but urged citizens to prioritize health. He linked the initiative to a vision once cherished by Captain Thomas Sankara, aiming to safeguard the health of Burkinabè people, suggesting a return to past ideals.
The Prime Minister made these remarks during his registration for the universal health insurance in Ouagadougou. He described the insurance as a fundamental safety n
et for subscribers, providing financial support in times of illness. The initiative is designed to offer a minimum guarantee for those seeking medical care.
Soumaïla Gamsoré, the Director General of the National Universal Health Insurance Fund (CNAMU), reiterated that the transitional government has prioritized universal health insurance as part of its stabilization and development agenda. He emphasized the political commitment to ensure every citizen has access to medical treatment and to foster solidarity during health crises.
Since its launch in October 2024, the scheme has registered over 250,000 individuals, with more than 45,000 included in the biometric database. For formal economy workers, the contribution is set at 5% of the gross salary, evenly split between workers and employers. Informal economy participants contribute a flat rate, with the state covering costs for indigent actors.
Family members eligible for benefits include spouses, children, children under guardianship, and adopted children.
The scheme covers essential medical procedures, including hospital nursing, imaging, surgery, and radiography, though cosmetic surgery is not included.
To enroll, individuals must register on the CNAMU website or visit its headquarters. After registration, beneficiaries receive a certificate and a registration card, allowing them to access services three months later. Under the scheme, workers are responsible for 30% of health care costs, while CNAMU covers the remaining 70%.
The Universal Health Insurance Scheme (RAMU), established in September 2015, aims to provide health care coverage for illness or maternity, ensuring no one is left without essential medical support.
