Health and Child Care Minister Douglas Mombeshora says government will safeguard funds collected through health-related taxes.
As a result, revenue from sugar taxes and other health levies will support health programmes only.
Speaking on the sidelines of the World Health Assembly in Geneva, Switzerland, Mombeshora said the decision will strengthen healthcare funding.
He explained that dedicated funding could reduce financial challenges affecting service delivery.
“Our plan now is to have monies that are meant for health programmes ring-fenced. The money is collected for health purposes, but if it is not ring-fenced, it can then be used for other things,” said Mombeshora.
He noted that healthcare programmes have often missed out on funds intended for them.
“We think that has been the main problem for us — failing to get the money that is meant for health programmes.
“There has been a bit of resistance, but I think we have got the support of our President, who has accepted that these taxes should be introduced and, secondly, that they must be linked to health programmes.
“If all this money were ring-fenced, we would not be worried at all because it would mean we still have that money available for health services.”
Health Taxes Target Lifestyle Diseases
Zimbabwe introduced sugar and fast-food taxes to combat non-communicable diseases.
The measures also aim to generate additional resources for healthcare services.
Conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, obesity and heart disease continue to increase nationwide.
“When the sugar tax was introduced and the fast-food tax, it was to try and discourage people from taking sugary drinks and also from going for these takeaways, pizzas and other fast foods,” said the Minister.
However, Mombeshora said unhealthy food outlets continue expanding across communities.
“But fast foods are proliferating. I think it is more a question of knowledge and awareness.
“We need to educate parents and communities on healthy lifestyles.”
He stressed that public education remains essential in promoting healthier choices.
Furthermore, he urged communities to embrace better eating habits and preventive healthcare practices.
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