Written By Lisa Murimi
Public sector unions in Kenya, led by the Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU), have threatened to hold demonstrations within 14 days if the government does not address challenges stemming from the rollout of the Social Health Authority (SHA).
The unions criticized the government’s rushed implementation of SHA, which replaced the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF), for causing significant disruptions in healthcare access.
KMPDU Secretary General Davji Attelah highlighted that the SHA transition has slowed access to healthcare for civil servants and the general public, with unclear communication on the new scheme’s benefits.
Attelah expressed frustration, stating that SHA deducts more from workers’ salaries while providing substandard services, adding financial strain during a time of rising living costs.
Union leaders also raised concerns over potential job losses for NHIF employees and demanded that all previously employed staff be transitioned to SHA with full benefits.
They warned that if their demands are not met, they will resort to industrial action.
The government, meanwhile, has assured Kenyans that healthcare services will continue without disruption.
Health Cabinet Secretary Deborah Barasa and Principal Secretary Harry Kimtai have defended the SHA rollout, emphasizing that it follows the law and aims to improve healthcare in the long term.
