Nairobi, 18th September 2024 – Kenya is set to significantly advance its journey toward Universal Health Coverage (UHC) with the launch of the Social Health Authority (SHA) on October 1st, 2024. This announcement was made by Health Cabinet Secretary Dr. Deborah M. Barasa during a media breakfast at Sarova Panafric Hotel in Nairobi on September 18, 2024.
The SHA, which will replace the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF), is designed to provide affordable, accessible, and quality healthcare services to all Kenyans. The comprehensive benefit package for the SHA has been finalized, but current government funding covers only 4% of the total estimated costs.
Dr. Barasa highlighted that the government has allocated Ksh. 6.1 billion towards the SHA, a small portion of the Ksh. 168 billion needed for full implementation. She reassured the public that the SHA would continue to improve as more funding becomes available and the system evolves.
The government is also collaborating with Safaricom to digitalize healthcare services, aiming to enhance efficiency and improve data management. Dr. Barasa acknowledged the financial challenges but emphasized the government’s commitment to reducing out-of-pocket expenses for Kenyans and enhancing healthcare services across the country.
Key health leaders attended the event, including COG Health Committee Chair Governor Muthomi Njuki, Principal Secretaries Mr. Harry Kimtai (Medical Services) and Ms. Mary Muthoni (Public Health and Professional Standards), Director General of Health Dr. Patrick Amoth, SHA Chairperson Mr. Abdi Mohammed, and SHA CEO Mr. Elijah Wachira, among other
