The Social Health Authority (SHA) is steadily proving to be a success, with many Kenyans already benefiting from its services despite some notable teething challenges. Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has called on Kenyans to enroll in large numbers to ensure they can access affordable and comprehensive healthcare under the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) plan.
Speaking during a fundraising event for Harhosa Mixed Day Secondary School at Moyale Baraza Park in Marsabit County, Duale emphasized the inclusive nature of the new system. He pointed out that under SHA, individuals are allowed to register up to four wives and an unlimited number of children, provided they can prove their dependency — a major shift towards recognizing Kenya’s diverse family structures.
The Cabinet Secretary highlighted that SHA offers comprehensive healthcare coverage for all citizens, unlike the defunct National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF), which largely catered to employed Kenyans. He stated that the new system is designed to ensure that even unemployed and marginalized communities can access quality medical services without financial hardship.
Duale also strongly criticized those opposing the SHA, labeling them as “cartels” who had previously benefited from fraudulent activities under the NHIF. He insisted that the resistance from these groups is driven by selfish interests, as SHA seeks to close corruption loopholes and ensure healthcare benefits reach the deserving population.
Across the country, numerous testimonials from Kenyans highlight how SHA has positively impacted their lives. Patients in government hospitals from counties like Kakamega, Kitui, and Turkana have reported receiving services such as maternity care, outpatient treatment, and chronic disease management under SHA coverage, demonstrating the system’s growing reach and effectiveness.
While acknowledging that the rollout has not been without challenges—such as delays in card issuance and system integrations—Duale maintained that these are normal teething problems that the government is working swiftly to resolve. He reassured the public that the benefits of SHA would far outweigh the initial challenges once the system fully stabilizes.
The Health Cabinet Secretary urged Kenyans to remain patient and support the initiative, emphasizing that the success of UHC hinges on collective participation. He encouraged pastoralist and rural counties, in particular, to enroll actively, noting that healthcare access for historically underserved populations is a central pillar of SHA’s mission.
In conclusion, Duale urged Kenyans to rally behind President William Ruto’s government and the SHA program as a major milestone in healthcare reform. He called for unity and collective action, promising that the government remains committed to delivering universal, affordable, and corruption-free health services for all.
