The government has released KSh 4 billion to the Social Health Authority (SHA) to fund medical cover for public servants, signalling a major step toward improving welfare and reducing out-of-pocket health expenses.
Cabinet Secretary for Public Service, Human Capital Development, and Special Programmes, Geoffrey Ruku, announced the allocation, highlighting the government’s commitment to ensuring full coverage under the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF).
“Public servants are already covered. What remains is for us to diligently serve wananchi and support the rollout of SHA so that every Kenyan can access affordable and quality healthcare,” Ruku said during the annual ACK Women’s Union service at St. Peter’s Cathedral in Siakago, Embu County.
SHA CEO Dr. Mercy Mwangangi confirmed receipt of the funds on Friday, emphasising that the allocation will strengthen the rollout of SHA across the country. Approximately 30,000 Kenyans are registering daily, reflecting growing public confidence in the new health system.
The service drew hundreds of congregants, government officials, and local leaders.
A key highlight was the official induction of 987 women into the Mothers’ Union, led by ACK Dean Bishop Moses Masamba. Participants also contributed to the Green Blue Apartment Siakago housing initiative, spearheaded by the Diocese’s Women’s Department.
Representing President William Ruto, Cabinet Secretary for Lands, Public Works, Housing, and Urban Development, Alice Wahome, described SHA as a “game-changer” in Kenya’s healthcare sector.
“We must educate, we must mobilize, and above all, we must register,” she said, urging churches and communities to lead sensitisation campaigns.
Wahome also provided updates on the Affordable Housing Programme, noting that 170,000 units are nearing completion and 670,000 Kenyans have already applied.
Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire highlighted progress in county healthcare, revealing that KSh 213 million has been disbursed to Embu Level 5 Hospital since July. Maternity services are now fully free, and the county ranks fifth nationally in SHA registration, with 302,000 individuals signed up, representing 55% of the population.
Dr. Mwangangi provided a detailed overview of SHA’s structure and benefits, assuring the public that measures are being strengthened to prevent fund mismanagement and ensure transparency. She reiterated the government’s commitment to building a healthcare system that leaves no Kenyan behind, marking a significant milestone in the country’s pursuit of Universal Health Coverage.
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