Mental health services included in NHIF package, says government

Dar es Salaam. The government has confirmed that mental health services are already part of the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) package, as outlined in the Standard Treatment Guidelines (STG).

Deputy Minister for Health, Dr Godwin Mollel, clarified in Parliament on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, while responding to a question from Iringa Urban MP Jesca Msambatavangu (CCM).

In her main question, the lawmaker asked when the NHIF would begin covering mental health services.

Responding, Dr Mollel said treatment, counselling, rehabilitation, and other specialised mental health services are recognised as essential healthcare under the STG, which guides NHIF coverage.

“The NHIF covers all prescribed medications and treatments for mental health, in line with the specific medicines and levels of service outlined in the STG,” Dr Mollel told the National Assembly.

In a supplementary question, Ms Msambatavangu requested an update on the planned establishment of the Mental Health National Council and asked how the government deals with individuals experiencing suicidal tendencies—whether they are jailed or referred for treatment.

Dr Mollel said the formation of the Mental Health National Council is underway, with the government carrying out a comprehensive review to ensure the guidelines for its creation are robust and inclusive.

He acknowledged the complexity of mental health and suicide-related cases, stressing the need for expert assessment to determine their root causes—whether they result from mental illness or other factors.

“There are individuals detained at Mirembe Mental Health Hospital after committing offences linked to suicide attempts. The government is treating them, even without involvement from their families,” he said.

Dr Mollel underscored the importance of collaboration between medical professionals and security organs in such matters.

“This is a sensitive issue. We must allow professionals to handle it and have faith that they are making informed decisions,” he said.