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This paper published in Health Systems and Reform underscores the importance of strategic purchasing in advancing universal health coverage (UHC), particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, where public funding for health often lags behind commitments. It highlights the need for governments and supporting partners to prioritize and invest in improving strategic purchasing to align health funds with population needs effectively. The paper explores the rationale, challenges, and practical steps for enhancing strategic purchasing functions and policies to progress toward UHC in the region.