iCHF
A Healthy Community Starts with Us: The Improved Community Health Fund (iCHF)
In Tanzania, access to quality healthcare is a shared responsibility. The Improved Community Health Fund (iCHF) is a government-led initiative that empowers communities to take charge of their own health. It's a voluntary, community-based health financing scheme where families contribute a small amount to secure their basic healthcare needs. This simple act of financial contribution strengthens the entire healthcare system, working hand-in-hand with government efforts to ensure no one is left behind.
HIMSO, which stands for Health & Insurance Management Services Organization, initiated its community health program in 2002 through the Center for International Development and Research (CIDR). In Mbozi district, CIDR introduced the Self-Managed Health Insurance Scheme (SMHIS).
HIMSO works closely with the President's Office - Regional Administration, and Local Government Ministry (PO-RALG), and its permanent seat on the National iCHF Taskforce. This membership demonstrates its integral role in shaping and guiding the strategic direction of the iCHF initiative at a national level.
The Impact in Mbeya and Songwe Regions
HIMSO's work is not just about a fund; it's about building healthier, more resilient communities. In the Mbeya and Songwe regions, its partnership with local governments and communities has led to remarkable achievements:
- Between February 2019 and August 2025, over 64,853 households joined the iCHF, with strong participation from both Mbeya (41,078 households) and Songwe (23,835 households). This incredible growth is a testament to the trust and confidence communities have placed in the program.
HIMSO has successfully conducted awareness campaigns in 827 villages, ensuring that remote communities are educated on the benefits of the iCHF. Our outreach efforts are all about making sure that every family knows they have a pathway to better health.
- HISMO is proud to co-manage the iCHF and DharuraFasta programs with 10 district councils. This collaborative approach ensures that collective efforts are efficient and effective, strengthening the entire healthcare system from the ground up.
To ensure the program runs smoothly, HISMO has provided 8 motorbikes to seven district councils. This logistical support allows for better supervision and monitoring, bringing essential services closer to the people who need them.
By empowering households to invest in their own health, HIMSO and the iCHF program are making a tangible difference, one community at a time.
