Public service mutual insurance : MPs denounce deemed deficient services

SOS Médias Burundi

Bujumbura, January 11, 2026 – The difficulties faced by members of the Public Service Mutual Insurance (MFP), particularly retirees, in accessing medication were strongly denounced by MPs during a question period held Wednesday at the National Assembly. The focus was on the quality of services offered and the loss of trust among beneficiaries.

Severe criticism in Parliament

During this session, several MPs expressed their dissatisfaction with the MFP’s services. They bluntly denounced the unsatisfactory services, even stating that some members prefer to abandon this mutual insurance in favor of the Health Insurance Card (CAM).

As a reminder, the CAM, which became mandatory following a February 2025 decree, is intended for all households and anyone aged 18 and over who does not have other health insurance coverage. It aims to expand social protection and provides access to care in public and approved centers for a co-payment. However, its implementation faces several challenges, notably the shortage of medications and medical supplies. Vulnerable populations sometimes receive cards through donations.

Retirees particularly affected

According to statements from members of parliament, MFP (Public Service Mutual Insurance) members, especially retirees, experience enormous difficulties accessing prescribed medications. Many are forced to go from the MFP’s pharmacies to private pharmacies, searching for products that are often unavailable. When they are finally served, they generally receive generic medications, which are less expensive for the MFP but not always suited to their needs, which particularly affects patients with chronic illnesses.

Towards the establishment of a study commission

Faced with this worrying situation, Member of Parliament Dieudonné Manirambona proposed the creation of a commission tasked with thoroughly analyzing the problems of the Civil Service Mutual Insurance and formulating sustainable solutions. This proposal was welcomed and supported by the Speaker of the National Assembly.

According to the Speaker, the commission will be composed of representatives from the Presidency of the Republic, the Prime Minister’s Office, and the Ministries of Public Health, the Interior, and the Civil Service. The Prime Minister’s Office will coordinate its work.

A historic mission under strain

As a reminder, the Civil Service Mutual Insurance was created in 1978 with the mission of providing medication coverage for State employees and civil servant retirees. According to the members of parliament, this mission is now struggling to be fully fulfilled.

The difficulties faced by the MFP (Public Service Mutual Insurance) underscore the risk of a widespread loss of trust among its members and highlight the urgent need for reforms to guarantee real and sustainable access to healthcare for civil servants and retirees, either in addition to or alongside existing systems like the CAM (National Health Insurance Card).