“Concerns raised over relocation of NHIMA”
… The Labour Movements call for transparency and stakeholder r
epresentation
By Francis Maingaila
Lusaka, Zambia24 – (4-04-2024) – The Zambia Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU) and the Zambia Federation of Employers (ZFE) have expressed concerns about the management of the National Health Insurance Management Authority (NHIMA).
In a joint statement issued at a media briefing this morning, ZCTU president Blake Mulala expressed concern that the progress made in reforming NHIMA, aimed at enhancing its financial sustainability, is now at risk due to the government’s decision.
He asserted that relocating NHIMA from the Ministry of Labour and Social Security to the Ministry of Health will not resolve the numerous challenges the institution currently faces.
Mulala emphasized that NHIMA, a social health insurance scheme, is primarily financed by workers and employers in Zambia. He stressed the importance of upholding and protecting workers’ interests but expressed concerns among stakeholders about moving NHIMA to the Ministry of Health.
According to Mulala, under the Ministry of Labour and Social Security, NHIMA had a platform for inclusive decision-making through the Tripartite Consultative Labour Council.
“This allowed for consensus-based decisions, in line with the principles of decent work outlined by the International Labour Organization (ILO),” Mulala highlighted.
He noted that the financial landscape of NHIMA reveals that over 90% of its revenue is generated from mandatory contributions by workers and employers.
“Yet, NHIMA is burdened with financing pensioners and covering expenses for the informal sector, despite their low contributions,” he explained.
“This move not only disregards the collective role of workers and employers but also raises concerns about hidden interests and potential corruption,” he suggested.
He pointed out that past instances of corruption under the Ministry of Health serve as a stark reminder of the risks associated with this relocation.
The labor movement demands transparency and inclusive participation in decision-making, urging the government to reconsider its stance.
He reiterated that the labor movement stands firm in its commitment to protect the interests of workers and ensure the proper utilization of NHIMA funds.
He concluded by stating that the fate of NHIMA serves as a litmus test—a testament to the enduring struggle for equitable governance and the protection of those who contribute tirelessly to the nation’s prosperity.
Harrington Chibanda, Executive Director of the Zambia Federation of Employers (ZFE), strongly opposed the proposed relocation of the National Health Insurance Management Authority (NHIMA) to the Ministry of Health from the Ministry of Labour and Social Security.
Chibanda emphasized NHIMA’s status as a contributory scheme, primarily funded by employers and workers in the formal sector.
He argued that the Ministry of Labour and Social Security should oversee NHIMA’s operations, aligning with international practices.
He stressed the importance of stakeholder representation in decision-making, highlighting employers and workers as primary funders who should have a say in NHIMA’s management and location.
Chibanda reiterated NHIMA’s objective of ensuring improved access to quality healthcare for all Zambians, which he believes can still be achieved under the Ministry of Labour and Social Security.
Concerns about past corruption under the Ministry of Health were raised, warning of potential compromises to NHIMA’s operations and integrity if placed under its jurisdiction.
Chibanda appealed to the government to maintain NHIMA under the Ministry of Labour and Social Security, emphasizing stakeholder representation and transparency in decision-making.
The Zambia Federation of Employers remains committed to safeguarding workers’ welfare and ensuring access to quality healthcare for all.