On June 29, 2026, the National Assembly in Yaoundé convened a decisive working session, bringing together deputies, the Local Development Initiatives Support Service (SAILD) and the Network of Parliamentarians for the Promotion of the Health System and Support for Vaccination (REPAPSSAV). The goal was clear: to identify lasting mechanisms to fund health care and vaccination in Cameroon.
For several years, Cameroon’s health system has relied heavily on external aid and ad‑hoc financing. This dependence undermines the country’s ability to meet growing health‑care needs, especially in rural areas where access remains limited. Parliamentarians reminded that health sovereignty requires a solid and autonomous budgetary foundation.
SAILD, mandated to support local initiatives, presented proposals aimed at strengthening financial governance at the municipal level. Meanwhile, REPAPSSAV, a group of committed legislators, emphasized the need for legislation favourable to public health, particularly regarding mandatory vaccination and monitoring of immunisation campaigns.
Among the options discussed, deputies debated establishing a national health fund financed by broadened contributions, including a health levy on certain consumer products and the reallocation of existing budgetary credits. The idea of a universal health insurance scheme funded by progressive levies was also raised as a lever to guarantee equitable coverage.
Parliamentarians unanimously called on the government to boost national resources, stressing the necessity of reducing reliance on donors. They underscored that continuous investment in vaccination is essential to prevent epidemics and protect the population, especially children and vulnerable groups.
For Cameroonians, a more robust financing model would translate into faster access to care, better vaccine availability and greater resilience to health crises. Economically, a strengthened health sector would boost productivity by reducing sick‑leave days and supporting human development.
As the budgetary orientation debate approaches, legislators stress the political will required to turn these proposals into concrete laws. The success of the reforms will depend on Parliament’s ability to forge a lasting consensus so that every Cameroonian citizen can rely on a solid and autonomous health system.
