Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has hailed the launch of a programme through which the government will pay health insurance premiums for 1.5 million indigent Kenyans, calling it a historic milestone in the country’s healthcare journey.
The programme was officially unveiled on Friday by President William Ruto, marking a major boost for Taifa Care, Kenya’s most ambitious health insurance initiative.
“One step at a time, Taifa Care, Kenya’s boldest health insurance programme ever, is firming up,” Kindiki said. “With 26.4 million citizens already enrolled, our targets of 30 million by December 2025, 45 million by the end of 2026, and 55 million by the end of 2027 are clearly achievable.”
The Deputy President emphasized that the next focus will be strengthening healthcare infrastructure, including medical equipment, staffing, and the steady supply of drugs and medical commodities nationwide.
He credited Community Health Promoters (CHPs) for driving the programme’s success through door-to-door mobilization, enrollment campaigns, and promoting healthy lifestyles.
Kindiki, who met 6,500 CHPs and grassroots health groups during the event, thanked them for their dedication and urged them to remain committed to transforming Kenya’s health sector.
He was joined by Senate Deputy Speaker Kathuri Murungi, as well as MPs Joshua Mwalyo (Masinga) and John Bwire (Taveta), who pledged their support for the initiative.
By Michelle Ndaga
