Table of Contents
Angola Advances National Health Accounts for 2020-2023 to Enhance Health Financing
Angola has embarked on a comprehensive initiative to develop its National Health Accounts (NHA) covering the years 2020 through 2023. This endeavor is a pivotal move aimed at boosting the efficiency and fairness of health sector funding. Spearheaded by the Ministry of Health (MINSA), the project benefits from technical expertise provided by the World Health Organization (WHO) and financial backing from the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) under the INTEGRA program.
Strategic Importance of the NHA Process
The forthcoming NHA will offer critical insights into the mobilization, allocation, and utilization of health-related financial resources across Angola. By applying the internationally recognized System of Health Accounts 2011 (SHA 2011) framework, the analysis-scheduled from November 2025 to April 2026-will support evidence-based policymaking and advance the country’s commitment to Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
Comprehensive Data Collection Across Diverse Sectors and Regions
Data gathering and evaluation will encompass a broad spectrum of stakeholders, including public and private healthcare providers, international donors, civil society organizations, NGOs, insurance entities, households, and development partners. The study will focus on six provinces: Bié, Cuando Cubango, Malanje, Luanda, Uíge, and Zaire. Notably, the INTEGRA initiative will facilitate coverage in four provinces-Bié, Cuando Cubango, Uíge, and Zaire-areas identified by the 2024 Integrated Information Management System (IIMS) as facing significant barriers to accessing essential health services. This targeted approach ensures that the regions with the greatest health service challenges are prioritized.
The assessment will involve refining data collection instruments, quantifying financial flows within the health sector, cataloging the range of services delivered, and pinpointing the beneficiaries of health investments.
Deliverables and Expected Impact
The culmination of this work will be the publication of the Angola National Health Accounts Report for 2020-2023, adhering to WHO’s rigorous standards. Dr. Indrajit Hazarika, WHO Representative in Angola, emphasized, “Developing the National Health Accounts marks a significant advancement in enhancing governance and optimizing sector efficiency.” Denise António, UNDP Resident Representative in Angola, added, “This initiative aligns directly with the Government’s 2023-2027 National Development Plan, which prioritizes strengthening health sector governance. With robust data, Angola can strategically allocate resources to areas of greatest need, ensuring equitable health access for all citizens.”
Context and Urgency of the Current NHA Update
The previous NHA report in Angola dates back to 2011, covering the period from 2006 to 2008. Since then, the health financing landscape has evolved considerably, with increased demand for services and pressing needs to reinforce primary healthcare, epidemiological monitoring, workforce capacity, and infrastructure development.
Given these challenges, the updated NHA is timely and essential. It will enable policymakers and stakeholders to identify priority areas for resource optimization and enhance the resilience and responsiveness of Angola’s health system.
Long-Term Benefits and International Support
WHO and UNDP underscore the importance of regularly updating National Health Accounts as a cornerstone for sustainable health financing. Their continued support aims to foster a stronger, more equitable health system in Angola-one that is capable of meeting the diverse needs of its population and advancing health equity nationwide.
