The City of Harare has launched a groundbreaking health initiative that will give residents access to essential medical services for just US$2 per year, with an optional funeral insurance plan costing US$0.50 per month.
Dubbed the Community Health Equity Fund (CHEF), this pioneering program is the first of its kind in the capital. With a one-time registration fee of US$1 and a yearly contribution of US$2, enrollees can receive medical treatment at local clinics, including access to key medications, wellness services, and consultations with healthcare professionals.
Mayor Jacob Mafume emphasized that funds collected through CHEF will stay within the communities where they are raised, ensuring that each neighborhood’s health infrastructure benefits directly.
“We’re collecting just $2 annually from each resident,” Mafume said. “That money will fund services like maternity care and general consultations at clinics in the same suburb it came from—whether it’s Mbare, Harare South, or any other area. This approach will help improve healthcare delivery right where people live.”
The scheme is built around the idea of collective responsibility. By pooling small contributions from many individuals, the city hopes to maintain a sustainable, community-driven healthcare system.
As part of the package, residents can also access low-cost funeral cover. ZB Bank, a key partner in the initiative, confirmed that CHEF members would pay only US$0.50 per month, while non-members would be charged US$1.50 monthly for the same service.
“This cover is exclusively discounted for CHEF members,” said Freckson Ropi, a ZB Bank technical representative. “We want to encourage as many people as possible to join the fund.”
The program has received significant institutional backing. The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) has contributed US$700,000 as initial seed funding. Additional support is being provided by ZB Bank, the Harare Municipal Medical Aid Services, and the City of Harare itself.
One of the most anticipated aspects of CHEF is that participating clinics will operate 24/7, addressing long-standing concerns about the unavailability of emergency medical services in high-density areas.
Despite widespread support, some residents and advocacy groups are urging transparency and oversight. Reuben Akili, Executive Director of the Combined Harare Residents Association, acknowledged the initiative’s potential but also issued a caution.
“This is clearly a pro-poor strategy and a novel way to generate health funding,” Akili said. “However, without solid accountability measures, the fund could suffer the same fate as other well-intentioned but poorly managed projects.”
CHEF will begin with a pilot program in the Harare Southern District, covering neighborhoods such as Mbare, Hopley, Waterfalls, Sunnydale, Acadia, Braeside, Hadfield, and various satellite clinics. A citywide rollout is planned for 2026.
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