Yaoundé, Cameroon – July 17, 2026 – The Nkafu Policy Institute convened the 9th Operational Working Group (OWG) on health financing on July 16, 2026, at the Mansel Hotel in Yaoundé.
The dialogue centered on reducing the financial burden of healthcare on Cameroonian households, aiming to enhance Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and alleviate catastrophic health expenditures.
The event brought together researchers, health experts, and stakeholders to discuss the challenges and potential solutions for affordable and accessible healthcare. With over 5. 8 million citizens pre-enrolled in UHC as of April 2026, the conversation underscored the need to address the difficulties in covering chronic diseases under private health insurance.
Dr. Constantine Asahngwa, Deputy Director of the Health Division at the Nkafu Policy Institute, emphasized the importance of community-based health insurance schemes, which have shown success in certain areas. These schemes are seen as valuable models for national health financing reforms, aiming to improve the implementation of UHC in Cameroon.
Participants highlighted the need to rebuild public confidence in community — based health insurance to improve enrollment and long-term sustainability. Dr. Fuein Vera Kum, Research Fellow at the Nkafu Policy Institute, emphasized the role of community participation and the engagement of trusted leaders and healthcare workers.
The Nkafu Policy Institute is actively involved in discussions on the governance and regulation of private health insurance, access to coverage for health workers, and healthcare financing.
The organization is pushing for legal changes and innovative financing mechanisms to strengthen UHC.
The dialogue comes at a critical time as Cameroon grapples with high out — of-pocket health expenditures, which can push many into poverty.
The Nkafu Policy Institute’s efforts to find sustainable solutions for UHC are vital in ensuring that the nation’s healthcare system can provide essential services to all citizens without the fear of financial ruin.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: Panafricanvisions
Source: Pan African Visions
