(Monrovia, Liberia, 22 June 2026)—The Ministry of Health has presented President Joseph Nyuma Boakai Sr. with a proposal meant to transform the country’s healthcare financing system through the establishment of a national health insurance scheme, a move that will significantly expand access to quality healthcare and accelerate progress towards Universal Health Coverage.
The proposal comprises the Liberia Health Equity Fund for Universal Health Coverage (LHEF) Bill and the accompanying Health Equity Authority of Liberia (HEAL) framework, which together seek to create a sustainable mechanism for financing healthcare services while protecting citizens from the high cost of medical treatment.
Presenting the documents at the Executive Mansion on Monday, Health Minister Dr Louise M. Kpoto sought the President’s endorsement to advance the initiative and begin preparations for its implementation.
“We have come to ask for your endorsement,” Dr Kpoto said. “We want to translate this bill into legislation and seek your authorization for the Ministry of Health to work along with the Ministry of Finance, the Liberia Revenue Authority, NASSCORP and other stakeholders to prepare the regulatory framework and fiscal transition plan.”
She added: “We also ask you to instruct us to communicate with the public on what we have presented and begin civic education around the Health Equity Fund.”
According to the Ministry, the proposed legislation is among the most ambitious health sector reforms undertaken in recent years. It is designed to ensure that all Liberians and legal residents have equitable access to quality healthcare services while reducing the financial burden associated with seeking medical treatment.
The bill seeks to address longstanding challenges in healthcare financing by establishing a national health insurance mechanism capable of protecting individuals and families from catastrophic out-of-pocket health expenditures. It also outlines governance structures, financing arrangements, beneficiary coverage and accountability measures intended to ensure transparency and public confidence in the management of the fund.
Under the proposal, the Health Equity Authority of Liberia would oversee the implementation and administration of the scheme.
Receiving the documents, President Boakai praised the bill and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to healthcare reform.
“Thanks for this idea that will benefit our country,” the President said. “We need universal healthcare for our people. Some people claimed that the Ministry needs money; I am happy that you took your time to carefully look at it and put everything together.”
He continued: “What I know is that we have the competence right here, and what we need is for all of us to work for the country. Let’s show love and commitment to the country. Know that this country is yours, and only you can do it.”
Emphasizing the importance of public engagement, President Boakai said: “We need to educate a lot of people because we want to make a law that will benefit us. This is a very good effort. I want to assure you that we are committed to it.”
He added: “Healthy people will make a good contribution to our country.”
The proposed reform aligns with the government’s ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development and supports the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 3, which seeks to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all.
The Ministry of Health is now seeking presidential endorsement to submit the LHEF Bill to the National Legislature for consideration. If enacted, the legislation would mark a major milestone in Liberia’s journey towards Universal Health Coverage and represent a significant step forward in strengthening healthcare financing, advancing health equity and improving the wellbeing of citizens nationwide.