NAIROBI, Kenya — The Social Health Authority (SHA) has begun disbursing Sh11.1 billion to healthcare facilities across the country to settle approved claims under the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF).
In a notice issued to contracted healthcare providers, the authority said the payments commenced on Friday, March 13, 2026, as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen Kenya’s healthcare financing system and ensure uninterrupted medical services.
SHA Chief Executive Officer Mercy Mwangangi said the funds will be released in scheduled batches to ensure a smooth and efficient transfer process.
“To ensure a systematic and efficient transfer of funds, these payments are being processed and released in scheduled batches,” the authority said in the notice.
The disbursement cycle is expected to run throughout the week and conclude by March 19, 2026, with SHA assuring healthcare providers that all successfully approved SHIF claims will be settled within the period.
Healthcare facilities have been advised to allow time for the batch processing system and inter-bank clearing procedures before raising any concerns about pending payments.
The authority said facilities should wait until after March 19 before making inquiries regarding outstanding funds.
Should any facility fail to receive payment for approved claims by the end of the cycle, SHA said its support teams will begin handling queries and reconciliation requests from March 20.
The Social Health Insurance Fund is a central pillar of Kenya’s ongoing health financing reforms, designed to expand access to affordable healthcare and support the country’s broader universal health coverage agenda.
The authority thanked healthcare providers for their continued cooperation and commitment to delivering quality medical services to Kenyans despite operational challenges in the sector.
