Health & Education

A series of reforms in late 2013 have effectively redesigned the health sector’s institutional framework and increased coverage and access to services. While state funding remains low, the sector has seen a significant rise in private sector participation, which is expected to continue following implementation of the reform package. With a number of larger companies investing heavily, smaller clinics now face difficulties staying competitive, which may lead to greater consolidation within the sector. Rapid economic growth is also enabling better access to education, accompanied by efforts to uphold educational standards. Total public expenditure has inched along in recent years but is still below the regional average. With government spending for education remaining relatively low, private participation has played a crucial role in the development of the sector, which continues to offer ample opportunities for private investment, especially in underserved areas.