Public Service, Performance, and Delivery Management Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi has announced that all Huduma Centres across Kenya will now feature dedicated desks for the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF). This initiative aims to clear up confusion surrounding SHIF and the Social Health Authority (SHA), while providing Kenyans with easier access to accurate information and registration services.
In his statement on Monday, CS Muturi acknowledged the confusion many citizens have had regarding the two entities. “I recognize that there has been confusion around SHIF and the Social Health Authority (SHA). To bridge this gap, I have directed that all Huduma Centres across the country establish SHIF desks, ensuring every Kenyan can easily access information and register,” he said.
The announcement came after Muturi’s visit to the Kapsabet Huduma Centre in Nandi County, where he praised the centre’s proactive approach in setting up a fully operational SHIF desk. The desk is designed to assist residents by providing clear explanations about SHIF and facilitating their registration into the system, making health-related services more accessible.
CS Muturi expressed satisfaction with the progress made at the Kapsabet centre and emphasized the importance of replicating this model across the nation. “While challenges remain, we are committed to addressing them and improving public service delivery for all Kenyans,” he stated.
Further reflecting on Kenya’s public service delivery, Muturi compared it to the efficiency of Azerbaijan’s systems. He noted, “During the visit, I also reflected on lessons from Azerbaijan, where I was challenged by their efficiency in service delivery. For instance, in Azerbaijan, applying for a driving license takes just one day, while in Kenya, it takes weeks.” He stressed the need for Kenya to improve its service delivery timelines, adding that the Ministry of Public Service and Human Capital Development is working on policies to expedite all Huduma services.