CEDEP and MANET+ Advocate for Health Financing in Political Party Manifestos

In a significant meeting held on April 3 in Zomba, the Centre for the Development of People (CEDEP) and the Malawi Network of People Living with HIV/AIDS (MANET+) brought together the general secretaries of all political parties represented in Parliament. The discussions focused on the urgent need for earmarked taxes and prioritizing health funding in party manifestos ahead of the upcoming elections.

The meeting, which included key political figures and civil society representatives, underscored the collaborative effort to address critical challenges facing Malawi’s health sector. CEDEP and MANET+ emphasized that earmarked taxes are crucial for creating a sustainable funding mechanism for health initiatives.

“Earmarked taxes are essential for creating a reliable financial foundation for our health services,” said Mr. Lawrence Khonyongwa, Executive Director of MANET+, during the meeting. “We urge all political parties to commit to this approach in their manifestos.”

Alongside discussions about earmarked taxes, participants highlighted the importance of including clear health funding strategies in party platforms. A commitment to such strategies would not only show the parties’ dedication to improving health outcomes but also reassure voters that health is a top priority.

Beyond earmarked taxes on items like cigarettes, motor insurance, and alcohol, the meeting also explored potential partnerships with organizations such as the Kabaza Association. This could contribute to health funding through the implementation of annual fees. By fostering these collaborations, CEDEP and MANET+ are advocating for a comprehensive approach to financing health services.

Linda Limbe, Secretary General for AFFORD, thanked the organizers for engaging political parties on this critical issue. She stressed the necessity of finding alternative funding for the health sector, especially following the freeze on donations from development partners like USAID. “As political parties, we need to prioritize health because all development depends on the health of the people,” said Linda.

One key point that emerged during the meeting was the need to engage the National Planning Commission to ensure that political parties prioritize domestic resource mobilization for the health sector. Since the National Planning Commission certifies the manifestos for all parties, the parties agreed to engage them early in the certification process. This would allow the Commission to encourage parties to include domestic strategies for funding the health sector.

With all political parties now on board, the hope is to see health funding take center stage in their manifestos as the electoral process moves forward, paving the way for a healthier future for all Malawians.