Rwanda’s community health insurance, known as Mutuelle de Santé, is getting a major update as it celebrates 25 years of helping citizens access affordable healthcare. Starting this year, households will pay contributions based on income levels and social standing, making the system fairer and more sustainable.
The new system divides the population into five income groups:
No income: Pay Rwf4,000 per year, fully covered by the government (7% of Rwandan population).
Earning under Rwf30,000/month: Contribute Rwf4,000 with a Rwf1,000 government subsidy (23% of Rwandan population).
Earning Rwf30,000–60,000: Contribute Rwf5,000 with no subsidy (35% of Rwandan population).
Earning Rwf60,000–120,000: Pay Rwf8,000, no subsidy (27% of Rwandan population).
Earning over Rwf120,000: Contribute Rwf20,000, no subsidy (8% of Rwandan population).
The goal is to make payments match what households can afford while keeping the insurance fund strong.
Household data comes from surveys that look at income, living conditions, and other social factors. Where needed, official income records from the Rwanda Revenue Authority and RSSB are used to ensure accuracy. Families can check their status by dialing *195# and make payments through *876# or the Irembo online service platform. To keep the system financially healthy, RSSB now manages it, reducing reliance on government funding. Household contributions are expected to cover nearly half of revenues in the 2026/27 fiscal year.
Expanded Benefits and New Payment System
The insurance now covers more expensive services, including dialysis, cancer treatment, organ transplants, and major surgeries. Health centers will receive fixed payments per registered member in advance, replacing the old fee-for-service model. This approach is expected to improve care, accountability, and budget planning.
Patients pay Rwf200 per health center visit and 10% of hospital bills, while the rest is covered by Mutuelle. Drugs bought outside approved facilities are not reimbursed. Coverage starts once all household members are registered and contributions paid.
Brenna AKARABO
RADIOTV10
