By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
The Government of Zimbabwe has announced a substantial increase in the budget allocation for the health sector for the fiscal year 2025. This year’s allocation of ZiG28.3 billion marks a notable rise to 13% of the national budget, up from last year’s figure of 9.8%. This increase not only reflects a commitment to enhancing health services but also aligns closely with the Abuja Declaration, which calls on nations to allocate at least 15% of their budgets to healthcare.
The substantial increase was announced by Zimbabwe’s Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion, Hon. Prof. Mthuli Ncube, during budget presentation held in Harare yesterday.
The 2025 budget prioritises universal access to quality health services, aiming to provide a comprehensive network of healthcare, medicine, and manpower.
“In this regard, ZiG28.3 billion has been allocated to the Ministry of Health and Child Care during 2025 towards the health sector,” Prof. Ncube stated.
This funding is expected to address critical gaps in healthcare accessibility and service delivery, particularly in rural areas where access to healthcare facilities has historically been limited.
These include operational support for central, provincial, and district hospitals, as well as renovations and the construction of new medical facilities in underserved regions.
The budget also earmarks funds for the procurement of modern medical equipment and essential medicines.
“The budget allocates ZiG3.5 billion specifically for the construction and rehabilitation of hospitals, clinics, and health centers, along with ZiG290 million for medical equipment procurement and ZiG150 million for ambulances and utility vehicles, “ he noted.
Complementary to this, the introduction of special taxes on sugar and airtime is projected to generate ZiG4.1 billion, providing additional resources for health service delivery improvements.
In his address, Prof. Ncube emphasised the government’s resolve to enhance the skills and efficiency of health personnel through both monetary and non-monetary support schemes.
“The Government will continue to monitor the effectiveness of current monetary and non-monetary schemes in supporting effective and efficient service delivery,” he added.
In addition to national efforts, the health sector is expected to receive substantial development assistance totaling US$461 million for tackling public health challenges such as HIV/AIDS, malaria, and tuberculosis, as well as maternal and child health initiatives alongside digitalization efforts.
The 2025 budget aims to address longstanding issues within the healthcare system, fostering an environment where quality health services are accessible, particularly for the most vulnerable populations.