Senegal is demonstrating significant progress toward achieving universal health coverage (UHC), with over 53% of its population now covered, a substantial increase from 10% a decade ago. This advancement is particularly impactful for women, who constitute over 70% of insured persons, many residing in rural areas. The nation has set an ambitious target to expand coverage to 75% by 2029, aiming to ensure equitable access to healthcare across its entire territory.

Central to this remarkable progress is the robust digital transformation spearheaded by the National Agency for Universal Health Coverage (SEN-CSU), which now functions as the national health insurance fund. To streamline and simplify crucial processes such as enrolment, premium payments, and the comprehensive management of insured individuals, the Agency has meticulously modernized its central management system. This modernization has been complemented by the strategic deployment of several innovative digital solutions.

These key digital tools include the intuitive SEN CSU mobile application, a national platform specifically designed for universal health coverage management, and the GESTAM mutual health fund management system. Furthermore, the SITFAC billing monitoring system ensures transparency and efficiency in financial transactions, while the EDIRAMU tool facilitates effective enrolment and risk management. These groundbreaking innovations were prominently showcased at the African Health Tech Summit, which took place in Kigali in late November 2025, highlighting Senegal's leadership in health tech.

The implementation of these advanced digital tools, coupled with extensive awareness campaigns conducted within local communities, has revolutionized citizen engagement. Individuals can now conveniently register for coverage remotely, renew their benefits with ease, and make premium payments seamlessly through mobile money platforms. Moreover, they can track their coverage status in real time, enhancing transparency and accessibility. The system also extends its reach to the diaspora, allowing individuals living abroad to sponsor insured persons in Senegal, thereby broadening access to essential healthcare services for their families and communities.

Since 2024, Senegal, with the crucial support of the Better Than Cash Alliance (hosted by UNDP), has progressively transitioned from traditional cash payments for universal health coverage to more secure and efficient digital transactions. Dr. El Hadji Séga Guèye, Director-General of the National Agency for Universal Health Coverage, articulated the strategic vision behind this shift: “We are gradually phasing out cash payments to build a model rooted in trust and efficiency. The health insurance card with a QR code, now recognized nationwide, ensures access to care without financial or administrative barriers.”

Technical partners underscore the effectiveness of this structured digital approach in yielding stronger results. Jean-Pascal Mvondo, Regional Lead for Francophone Africa at the Better Than Cash Alliance, emphasized the foundational elements of Senegal's digital transformation: “The digital transformation led by the National Agency for Universal Health Coverage is built on three internationally recognized pillars: digital identity, digital payments, and robust data governance. These key elements are enabling a growing number of citizens, including in rural areas, to benefit from health insurance. This marks a major step toward universal health for all.”

At the African Health Tech Summit, the Senegalese delegation further solidified its position as a leader by presenting a compelling case study titled “How Senegal Made Responsible Digital Payments a Catalyst for Universal Health Coverage.” This study vividly illustrates how these digital tools significantly enhance transparency, bolster data protection, and elevate the overall quality of service, offering a scalable and adaptable model for other developing nations striving for similar healthcare reforms.

The positive impact of this digital transformation is already profoundly felt in the daily lives of families across Senegal. Coumba Bindia, a mother and resident of Kédougou, shared her experience as an insured woman at SEN CSU: “Before, joining and paying the mutual fund was very difficult: sometimes they told us they had no change, and I had to come back. Today, with Orange Money or Wave, I pay directly and the money goes to the insurance fund. The digital card also allows us to receive care anywhere in Senegal, from Dakar to Ziguinchor. For us, it changes everything.” Her testimony powerfully encapsulates the tangible benefits and improved convenience brought by these innovations.

Through this sustained momentum, Senegal is making a monumental stride toward establishing a more equitable, modern, and universally accessible health coverage system. The nation remains steadfast in its ongoing efforts to strengthen inclusion and continually improve the quality of services provided to all its citizens, setting a global example for digital-driven UHC.