Egypt’s Deputy Prime Minister for Human Development and Minister of Health and Population, Dr. Khaled Abdel Ghaffar, convened a high-level meeting on Wednesday to assess mechanisms for settling outstanding debts under the country’s unified procurement system.
The session brought together key ministry officials, including Dr. Hesham Steit, Chairman of the Egyptian Authority for Unified Procurement, Medical Supply and Technology Management.
Dr. Hossam Abdel Ghaffar, spokesperson for the Ministry of Health and Population, explained that the meeting focused on evaluating measures implemented based on prior recommendations and the tangible progress achieved so far.
Remaining challenges were also discussed, with an emphasis on developing practical solutions to enhance the efficiency of the unified purchasing system and improve the management of financial resources.
“The meeting reviewed the debt settlement status across multiple sectors, highlighting amounts settled during the previous period and outlining steps to address the remaining obligations,” Dr. Hossam Abdel Ghaffar said.
“This approach ensures the uninterrupted flow of operations and continued supply of medicines and medical equipment, supporting sustainable healthcare delivery for citizens.”
Dr. Khaled Abdel Ghaffar underlined the importance of coordinated action among relevant authorities, stressing the need for a clear implementation plan with a defined timetable to address financial commitments while protecting the rights of both the state and suppliers.
He also directed the establishment of a specialised committee to audit spending and consumption procedures across ministry medical facilities, aiming to optimise resource use and strengthen financial and administrative oversight.
The meeting included senior officials across Egypt’s healthcare sector: Dr. Peter Wagih, Assistant Minister of Health for Therapeutic Medicine; Dr. Maha Ibrahim, Head of the Specialized Medical Centers Secretariat; Dr. Mohamed Mustafa, Head of the Hospitals and Educational Institutes Authority; Dr. Ahmed Mustafa, Head of the Health Insurance Authority; Dr. Mohamed Shakweer, Head of the Therapeutic Institution; Dr. Mohamed Abdel Wahab, Permanent Undersecretary; Dr. Mohamed Abdel Hakim, Head of the Central Administration for Therapeutic Medicine; Dr. Mohamed Ramadan, Head of the Central Administration of the General Secretariat; and Dr. Hind Ashour, Head of the General Administration of Pharmacy.
The meeting reflects Egypt’s ongoing efforts to improve financial management within the health sector and ensure reliable access to essential medicines and medical supplies across the country.
About The Author
