Casablanca – In a recent meeting organized by the General Confederation of Moroccan Enterprises (CGEM) on January 22, 2025, Fouzi Lekjaa, the Minister Delegate in charge of the Budget, provided an update on Morocco’s strides in health coverage and social assistance. He emphasized the significant progress made while acknowledging the challenges that remain in achieving comprehensive reforms.

Expanding health coverage

According to Lekjaa, 32 million Moroccans—out of a total population of nearly 36 million—are now covered under the Compulsory Health Insurance (AMO) system. This milestone includes 11.4 million citizens under the “AMO Tadamoun” program, formerly known as RAMED, and 3.7 million self-employed workers enrolled in a dedicated AMO system for this category.

However, the minister noted that some individuals remain excluded from the AMO system due to flaws in the socio-economic evaluation mechanism, known as “Mouachir” (indicator). This scoring system, which determines eligibility for health coverage, has left “tens or hundreds of thousands” without access. Lekjaa acknowledged the need for improvements to make the system more inclusive and effective.

He called on CGEM and other stakeholders to play a proactive role in addressing these gaps, emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts to integrate those who remain uncovered.

Financial investments in health and social aid

The government has allocated significant resources to expand health coverage and provide social aid. Lekjaa revealed that the integration of 32 million Moroccans into the AMO system has cost over $1.03 billion. A major expense within this system is the cost of medications, which accounts for nearly one-third of insurance expenditures—34% under the National Fund for Social Welfare Organizations (CNOPS) and 32.4% under the National Social Security Fund (CNSS).

In addition to health coverage, the government has prioritized direct social aid. Approximately 4 million Moroccan households currently benefit from this program, receiving monthly payments ranging from $52 to $155. The total cost of this initiative is expected to increase from $2.63 billion in 2024 to $2.78 billion by 2025.

Strengthening the healthcare sector

To ensure the sustainability of these reforms, the government has invested heavily in upgrading the healthcare system. The health budget has nearly doubled, rising from $1.63 billion in 2021 to $3.36 billion in 2025. This funding supports the renovation of 1,400 existing healthcare facilities and the construction of new university hospitals.

As part of these efforts, three new university hospitals will be launched this year in Errachidia, Guelmim, and Béni Mellal. These facilities aim to enhance healthcare services and expand access to quality medical care across the country.

A roadmap for the future

While Morocco has made notable progress in expanding health coverage and providing social aid, Fouzi Lekjaa stressed that the journey is far from over. Addressing systemic challenges, improving the inclusivity of health programs, and ensuring the sustainability of funding are key priorities for the government.

Lekjaa’s remarks reflect Morocco’s ongoing commitment to strengthening its social safety nets and achieving comprehensive healthcare reforms, laying the groundwork for a more inclusive and equitable system for all citizens.