Kenya’s healthcare system has achieved a significant milestone as the Taifa Care program now covers 19 million citizens, marking a 146% increase from the previous NHIF membership. Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura announced these impressive figures today during a media briefing, showcasing the program’s success in making healthcare more accessible and affordable for Kenyans.
Launched in October 2024 as part of the Social Health Authority (SHA), Taifa Care represents a fundamental shift in Kenya’s healthcare approach. The program moves the country away from expensive out-of-pocket medical payments to a comprehensive, publicly funded system that ensures coverage for all citizens, regardless of employment status or income level.
The program’s impact is already being felt across the nation. To date, 8.5 million Kenyans have accessed medical check-ups through Taifa Care, with 331,265 referred for diabetes treatment and 711,172 screened for hypertension – crucial interventions that help prevent more serious health complications.
For families like Amina’s, whose son is undergoing cancer treatment, Taifa Care has brought much-needed relief. “The constant worry about hospital bills used to be overwhelming,” Amina shared. “Now, with claims being processed by the 14th of each month and increased oncology coverage of Ksh550,000 per patient, I can concentrate on my son’s healing.”
Recent improvements to the program include a substantial increase in ICU/HDU daily rates from Ksh 4,480 to Ksh 28,000, making critical care more accessible. The government is also working on introducing daily payment options to help low-income earners who find it difficult to make lump-sum contributions.
Following a successful Bilateral Health Summit that reviewed the program’s implementation, Mwaura encouraged all unregistered Kenyans to enroll, stating: “Taifa Care provides essential health security for you and your family. Don’t wait until you need medical attention to sign up.” With growing enrollment numbers, Kenya continues to make steady progress toward achieving universal healthcare coverage.
