Egypt allocates over $1B for new hospitals in push for universal healthcare
Government prioritizes healthcare expansion, aiming to modernize medical facilities and ensure wider coverage
CAIRO, Egypt (MNTV) — Egypt is ramping up efforts to improve public healthcare, allocating over $1 billion to upgrade hospitals and expand medical services as part of its universal health insurance initiative.
The program, launched in multiple phases, aims to provide modern healthcare facilities to every citizen, with a focus on the most vulnerable populations.
The first phase, covering six governorates, saw an investment of over $1 billion in upgrading and equipping medical facilities, benefiting six million citizens out of Egypt’s total population of 107 million.
At the Universal Health Insurance Authority’s annual forum in the New Administrative Capital, Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening the healthcare system.
He described the initiative as a pivotal shift toward universal coverage, emphasizing its long-term impact on future generations.
The first phase, which covered six governorates, saw significant investments to modernize hospitals and medical infrastructure, benefiting six million people out of Egypt’s 107-million population.
Officials estimate the second phase will require more than $2 billion to expand coverage to additional governorates, improve digital healthcare solutions, and train medical personnel.
The next stage will prioritize high-population areas, including Damietta, Matrouh, Kafr El-Sheikh, Minya, and North Sinai. Authorities are also considering incorporating a major governorate where university hospitals and private healthcare providers play a key role.
Health Minister Khaled Abdel Ghaffar highlighted the growing involvement of the private sector in healthcare infrastructure.
Private hospital beds now account for 29.3% of the total, up from 21% in 2011, while private hospitals represent 63.3% of the national total, reflecting increased confidence in non-government medical services.
The pharmaceutical industry has also seen private sector contributions rise to 82% in recent years.
At the forum, World Bank Regional Director Stéphane Guimbert praised Egypt’s healthcare progress, noting reductions in birth and mortality rates and improvements in life expectancy.
He also commended the country’s elimination of hepatitis C, recognized with a World Health Organization Gold Certification.
Egypt’s ambitious healthcare transformation hinges on strategic partnerships, increased investments, and a focus on modernizing medical infrastructure.
Officials stress that sustained funding and collaboration will be essential in achieving full nationwide coverage in the coming years.
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