Kenya is set to make a major advancement in achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) with the official launch of the Social Health Authority (SHA) on October 1st, 2024. 

The announcement was made by Health Cabinet Secretary Dr. Deborah M. Barasa during a media breakfast meeting held at Sarova Panafric in Nairobi on September 18, 2024.

The SHA, which will replace the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF), aims to provide affordable, accessible, and quality healthcare services to all Kenyans. The comprehensive benefits package for the SHA has been finalised, though current government funding covers only 4% of the total estimated costs. 

Dr. Barasa noted that the government has allocated Ksh6.1 billion for the SHA, which is just a fraction of the Ksh168 billion needed for full implementation. She assured that the SHA will continue to improve as the system evolves and additional funding is secured.

In addition to launching the SHA, the government is partnering with Safaricom to digitalise healthcare services, which will enhance efficiency and data management. Dr. Barasa acknowledged the funding challenges but reaffirmed the government’s commitment to reducing out-of-pocket expenses and improving healthcare services.

The meeting was attended by key health leaders, including Chair of the Health Committee of COG Governor Muthomi Njuki, Principal Secretaries Harry Kimtai (Medical Services) and Mary Muthoni (Public Health and Professional Standards), Director General of Health Dr Patrick Amoth, SHA Chairperson Abdi Mohammed, and SHA CEO Elijah Wachira among others.

SHA is supported by new legislative frameworks, including the Social Health Insurance Act, which mandates enrolment and expands benefits; the Digital Health Act, establishing a Digital Health Agency; and the Primary Health Act, which ensures accessible and effective healthcare at the grassroots level.

PS Kimtai assured Kenyans that SHA will transform Kenya's healthcare system with a seamless transition for new benefits and claims management. He announced that advanced health information management and e-claim systems are ready for deployment.