Kenya has taken a major step forward in its journey toward Universal Health Coverage, with more than 24 million citizens now enrolled in the Taifa-Care programme under the Social Health Authority (SHA). The milestone reflects growing public trust in the government’s new healthcare model, which promises affordable and quality care for every Kenyan.
Speaking during a media briefing at SHA headquarters in Nairobi, Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale emphasized the government’s determination to push forward with the health reforms. He noted that the high uptake of Taifa-Care signals not just public confidence but also the country’s readiness to fully transition into a people-centered healthcare system. He announced that the ministry would head to Nakuru the following day to continue with the registration momentum, stating that no one would be left behind.
Since its rollout, the programme has already delivered significant results. Over five million Kenyans have received treatment through the Primary Healthcare Fund, while another two million have accessed specialized services under the Social Health Insurance Fund. In addition, more than 550,000 mothers have benefited from maternal health coverage. To date, the SHA has paid out claims amounting to Ksh 6.82 billion, with a further Ksh 1.5 billion under ongoing verification.
Duale also addressed concerns around the recruitment process currently underway at the Social Health Authority. He reassured both staff and the public that the exercise is being conducted in full compliance with the Social Health Insurance Act of 2023. Transparency, merit, and fairness, he said, remain the guiding principles. He noted that former NHIF employees were being given priority for placement, with guarantees of job retention or redeployment under their existing terms.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to building a credible and inclusive institution, adding that no public servant would be sidelined and that there would be zero tolerance for fraudulent qualifications.
The Cabinet Secretary was accompanied by Principal Secretary for Medical Services Dr. Ouma Oluga, SHA Chairperson Dr. Abdi Mohamed, SHA CEO Dr. Mercy Mwangangi, and Eng. Anthony Lenaiyara from the Digital Health Authority, along with other senior SHA officials.
With the foundation now firmly in place and political goodwill evident, Kenya’s dream of achieving Universal Health Coverage is fast becoming a reality.
