EMBU, Kenya – The government has released KSh 4 billion to the Social Health Authority (SHA) to finance medical cover for public servants, in what officials say is a major boost to the rollout of the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF).
Public Service, Human Capital Development, and Special Programmes Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku said the allocation underscores the government’s commitment to protecting workers from high out-of-pocket medical costs.
“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 told worshippers at ACK St. Peter’s Cathedral Siakago in Mbeere North, Embu County, during the annual ACK Women’s Union service.
SHA chief executive Dr. Mercy Mwangangi confirmed receipt of the funds on Friday, saying the move strengthens confidence in the new health system as daily registrations climb to around 30,000.
Push for Universal Health Coverage
Ruku described SHA as a “transformative step” toward achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC), urging Kenyans to register en masse.
President William Ruto, represented at the service by Lands and Housing Cabinet Secretary Alice Wahome, also backed SHA, calling it a “game-changer” for communities.
Wahome said churches and local networks should spearhead awareness efforts.
“SHA is the game-changer for a healthy community. We must educate, we must mobilize, and above all, we must register,” Wahome said.
She also provided updates on the government’s Affordable Housing Programme, announcing that 170,000 units are nearly complete, with 670,000 applications received.
Embu Leads in Registration
Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire reported that 302,000 residents — 55 percent of the county’s population — have already signed up for SHA, ranking Embu fifth nationally.
She revealed that KSh 213 million has been disbursed to Embu Level 5 Hospital since July and that maternity services are now fully free.
“Health is personal. You are the only one who will suffer if you do not register,” Mbarire said, while urging regular health checkups, including cancer screening.
She encouraged Kenyans to take advantage of SHA’s flexible payment option, which allows four months’ payment upfront and the rest spread over eight months.
Safeguards and Transparency
Dr. Mwangangi said SHA has put in place strict safeguards to prevent mismanagement of funds.
“We are closing loopholes, strengthening transparency and building a healthcare system that leaves no one behind,” she assured.
The ACK Women’s Union service also saw the induction of 987 women into the Mothers’ Union and fundraising for the Green Blue Apartment Siakago housing project, led by the Diocese’s Women’s Department.
