Kenya has reached a significant milestone in its pursuit of Universal Health Coverage, with more than 24 million citizens now enrolled in the Taifa Care programme under the Social Health Authority (SHA), Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale announced on Tuesday.
Speaking during a media briefing at the SHA headquarters after addressing the institution’s staff, CS Duale emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring access to quality and affordable healthcare for all. “Tomorrow, we head to Nakuru to keep the momentum going. No one will be left behind,” he said.
The Taifa Care programme, anchored in the Social Health Insurance Act, 2023, is Kenya’s latest health reform aimed at replacing the now-defunct NHIF with a more inclusive and transparent model. So far, its achievements include:
- 5 million people treated under the Primary Healthcare Fund
- 2 million patients accessing specialized care through the Social Health Insurance Fund
- Over 550,000 mothers benefiting from maternal health coverage
- Ksh 6.82 billion in claims paid out, with Ksh 1.5 billion currently under verification
CS Duale reassured SHA staff and the public that recruitment within the new structure is being conducted with full transparency and adherence to merit-based principles, as outlined in the SHI Act. Former NHIF employees are being prioritized for redeployment or retention under their existing terms.
“We are building a people-first institution. No public servant will be left behind, and no fraudulent credentials will be tolerated,” he stated.
The briefing was attended by senior health officials including Principal Secretary for Medical Services Dr. Ouma Oluga, SHA Chair Dr. Abdi Mohamed, SHA CEO Dr. Mercy Mwangangi, and Eng. Anthony Lenaiyara of the Directorate of Health Administration (DHA).
The rollout of Taifa Care marks a bold step in reforming Kenya’s healthcare system and aligns with the government’s broader goal of achieving equitable health access for all citizens.
Written By Rodney Mbua
