Kenyan Government Launches Social Health Authority to Boost Universal Health Coverage

Government Spokesperson Hon. Sen. (Dr.) Isaac Mwaura addresses the media during the official launch of the Social Health Authority (SHA) at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) on September 25, 2024.

The Kenyan government has unveiled the Social Health Authority (SHA), a groundbreaking initiative aimed at delivering Universal Health Coverage (UHC) for all citizens. This move is part of the government’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformational Agenda (BETA Plan), which prioritizes access to quality healthcare regardless of a person’s financial status.

Speaking during a press briefing at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) on September 25, 2024, Government Spokesperson Hon. Sen. (Dr.) Isaac Mwaura called SHA the “cornerstone” of the nation’s healthcare reforms. He noted that the SHA is designed to ensure every Kenyan can access healthcare services without the financial barriers that have historically plagued the system.

One of the key changes brought by the SHA is a shift from the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF), which mainly depended on contributions from salaried individuals. According to Dr. Mwaura, the NHIF model has limited access to healthcare, especially for people in the informal sector. “The SHA will ensure that all adult Kenyans can contribute to a sustainable fund, providing broader access to healthcare services,” he said.

To make this possible, the government has enacted new laws such as the Primary Healthcare Act, the Social Health Insurance Act, and the Emergency, Chronic, and Critical Illness Act. These will establish three health funds, including the Primary Health Care Fund and the Social Health Insurance Fund, aimed at expanding coverage and ensuring more equitable healthcare.

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In a major shift, the SHA focuses on preventive and promotive healthcare, with Community Health Promoters (CHPs) leading efforts in early diagnosis and treatment. “We are prioritizing prevention to reduce the disease burden. Kenyans will benefit from services like consultations, diagnostics, and drug treatments at various health facilities across the country,” Dr. Mwaura explained.

The SHA will also improve access to critical and chronic illness treatments, including cancer care and organ transplants. Additionally, the enhanced Linda Mama package will now provide comprehensive maternal and child healthcare, covering antenatal, delivery, and postnatal care, and even addressing complications and infections post-delivery. “This package is a game changer in reducing maternal and infant mortality,” Mwaura added.

Beyond healthcare, the government is strengthening international partnerships. Dr. Mwaura announced that Kenya has entered into a Labour Mobility Partnership with Germany, which will allow Kenyan