Cameroonians are wondering whether health taxes could be part of the answer to tackling the challenge of the health budget deficit. These taxes can have a dual action, generating financial resources and reducing costly non-transmissible diseases.
In September 2025, Gaël Tsala Nkolo of Camer Press Agency presented a possible option to address Cameroon’s health budget shortfall. Cameroon’s health budget deficit is widening, and household expenditure is significant despite the authorities’ declared commitment to a policy of universal coverage.
The author reports that the non-governmental organization Reconciliation and Development Association is calling on the government to consider implementing health taxes on products that are harmful to health. Such taxes can have a dual effect, generating financial resources and reducing the harmful habits associated with the consumption of products such as tobacco and sugary drinks. Less consumption of these products can reduce the cost of treating illnesses such as diabetes, hypertension and cancer.
