NAIROBI, Kenya – Public Health and Professional Standards Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni has appealed to Kenyans to use the festive season to look out for elderly members of society, urging families and communities to help them access healthcare under the Social Health Authority (SHA).
The PS called on those who are financially able to assist older persons—especially in rural villages—by facilitating their registration to the Social Health Insurance Fund and paying contributions for indigent elderly people with no source of income.
“Many elderly Kenyans are often forgotten, yet they remain an important part of our society. As we celebrate Christmas, this is the time to ensure they are not left behind, especially when it comes to accessing healthcare,” Muthoni said.
She noted that the government is currently conducting assessments in homes for the elderly to ensure residents are registered under SHA, in line with President William Ruto’s push for universal access to quality health services.
According to the PS, elderly persons living in care homes who lack family support will be registered as indigents, with the government covering their health insurance contributions.
Muthoni made the remarks during a visit to Mji wa Huruma home for the elderly in Runda, Nairobi, where she was accompanied by members of the Jamii Imara Mashinani team.
The group marked the festive season by donating foodstuffs and essential supplies to residents.
The Jamii Imara Mashinani initiative has been touring parts of the Mt Kenya region, engaging residents through door-to-door outreach to explain government programmes and guide citizens on how to access public services.
The PS also urged community members in rural areas to take the lead in helping elderly neighbours complete the SHA registration process, saying grassroots support is key to ensuring no one is excluded from the new health system.
