Kenyans are set to commence contributions to the recently approved Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) starting next month, as announced by Health Cabinet Secretary Susan Nakhumicha following a recent High Court ruling allowing its implementation.
Speaking in the North Rift over the weekend, the CS emphasized the significance of the fund in ensuring a reduced cost of healthcare, making it more accessible for many Kenyans.
Expressing satisfaction with the court’s decision during an event in Kapsowar, Elgeyo Marakwet county. Nakhumicha stated, “I am happy that the courts allowed us to continue with the implementation of this programme. We are on course to deliver to Kenyans what our government promised to Kenyans.”
She further informed the public that the program is currently in the public participation stage, with regulations expected to take effect within the next two weeks, solidifying the path for the implementation of the Social Health Insurance Fund.
Nakhumicha clarified that the initiative aims to alleviate the financial burden on many Kenyans who struggle to afford healthcare, emphasizing the potential for a considerable reduction in the cost of healthcare access.
“The President promised to lower contributions from Sh500 to Sh300 and we are ready to implement this to benefit many Kenyans. Within the next two to three weeks, Kenyans will start making their contributions to this fund,” explained the CS.
The CS asserted that, like numerous countries globally, the majority of Kenyans grapple with medical conditions like cancer, hypertension, and diabetes and the newly established fund is poised to tackle these health challenges.
