NAIROBI, Kenya – The Ministry of Health has announced that more than 19.3 million Kenyans have enrolled in the newly established Social Health Authority (SHA), marking a major step toward universal healthcare.
However, officials warn that key challenges remain, including low weekend registration rates and limited uptake in some counties.
In a statement on Wednesday, Health Cabinet Secretary Deborah Barasa revealed that means testing has been conducted for 3.33 million registrants.
Despite the progress, she acknowledged that this remains “sub-optimal,” signaling the need for intensified efforts to ensure targeted support reaches those in need.
On the healthcare facilities front, Barasa noted that 8,813 out of 17,755 active facilities—roughly 56 percent—have enrolled in SHA, with 89 percent successfully logging into the system.
Additionally, since the program’s rollout in October 2024, over one million Kenyans have accessed primary healthcare services through SHA.
The Ministry also highlighted a significant improvement in processing times for pre-authorization requests, which have dropped from an average of 526 minutes to just 76 minutes.
This reduction is expected to enhance efficiency in service delivery.
Challenges in Registration and Digital Transition
Despite the progress, Barasa pointed out gaps in registration, particularly over weekends and in counties such as Turkana, West Pokot, and Samburu, where uptake remains low.
To address this, the government plans to intensify community outreach programs beyond health service points to encourage more sign-ups.
The transition from manual to digital systems has also posed challenges for healthcare facilities.
The Ministry pledged to continue capacity-building efforts to support facilities adapting to the new digital framework.
Funding Uncertainties and Future Strategies
Barasa reiterated the government’s commitment to maintaining essential health services, including HIV, TB, and malaria programs, despite shifting global health priorities and funding uncertainties—particularly from the U.S. government.
“Kenya is proactively engaging with internal and external stakeholders to develop strategies that safeguard service continuity and promote sustainable healthcare financing,” she said.
A strategic shift is also underway to integrate HIV and TB management into the general healthcare system, aligning with global best practices for more holistic service delivery.
“By adapting to emerging realities and leveraging local solutions, the Ministry of Health aims to drive long-term sustainability while continuing to meet the health needs of Kenyans,” Barasa added.
As the SHA rollout progresses, the Ministry faces the dual challenge of expanding coverage while ensuring the system remains efficient and sustainable.
