Kenya Launches Campaign to Achieve 100% Social Health Insurance Fund Registration

Dr. Barasa urged private healthcare providers to join the initiative by aligning with the Social Health Authority (SHA) under capitation agreements, enhancing the accessibility of quality healthcare services.

The Ministry of Health, under the leadership of Cabinet Secretary Dr Deborah Barasa, has launched a transformative campaign in Garsen Township, Tana River County, aimed at achieving 100% registration for the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF). This campaign is a crucial component of Kenya’s commitment to Universal Health Coverage (UHC), ensuring affordable and accessible healthcare for all citizens.

Currently, 15.6 million Kenyans are registered with SHIF, but the campaign seeks to address existing barriers that hinder broader enrollment. Key obstacles include lack of identification documents and awareness gaps, which the Ministry is actively working to resolve.

Dr. Barasa urged private healthcare providers to join the initiative by aligning with the Social Health Authority (SHA) under capitation agreements, enhancing the accessibility of quality healthcare services.

“This campaign is about ensuring no Kenyan is left behind in accessing affordable, high-quality healthcare. Together, we can make Universal Health Coverage a reality,” said Dr. Barasa.

Supporting President Ruto’s Vision

The initiative aligns with President William Ruto’s UHC agenda, reflecting a broader effort to build a resilient and inclusive health system. It is designed to extend healthcare benefits to underserved communities and create a robust framework for sustainable health financing.

Community and Leadership Support

Local leaders, including Tana River Senator Danson Buya Mungatana and Woman Representative Hon. Amina Dika Chidzuga, were present at the launch. They commended the Ministry’s efforts and pledged their full support in mobilizing communities to participate in the registration drive.

Enhancing Campaign Strategies

As part of this initiative, the Ministry has:

Deployed mobile registration units to reach remote areas.

Partnered with community-based organizations to raise awareness and educate citizens on SHIF benefits.

Engaged local administrative leaders to facilitate the acquisition of national identification documents, a key requirement for SHIF registration.

Introduced digital platforms to streamline the registration process and enhance service delivery.

Future Prospects

The campaign also seeks to expand the SHIF benefits package, including maternal and child health services, treatment for chronic diseases, and preventive care programs. It envisions fostering partnerships with international health organizations to enhance healthcare delivery and infrastructure.

Dr. Barasa concluded, “Universal Health Coverage is not just a policy goal; it’s a commitment to the well-being and dignity of every Kenyan. Together, we will achieve this transformative milestone.”

With this ambitious initiative, Kenya is making significant progress toward achieving equitable healthcare access, setting a benchmark for other nations in the region.