Narc Kenya party leader Martha Karua has criticized the Kenyan government for its management of the newly introduced Social Health Authority (SHA), claiming it undermines the country’s healthcare system and places undue financial strain on citizens. Karua voiced her concerns during a press conference in Nairobi on November 28, 2024, where she accused the government of prioritizing flawed policies over the welfare of Kenyans.
From NHIF to SHA: A Controversial Transition
Karua’s remarks focused on the dismantling of the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) in favor of the SHA, a cornerstone of the government’s Universal Health Coverage (UHC) initiative. While the NHIF charged a flat rate of KSh 500 per individual, SHA contributions are pegged at 2.75% of one’s earnings, significantly increasing the financial burden on middle- and low-income earners.
“Our health system is on the brink of collapse due to inadequate funding. The chaotic dismantling of a working system, the NHIF, and forcing upon Kenyans the SHA, which they cannot even comprehend, has left families grappling with healthcare access,” Karua stated.
She argued that the new policy has deepened inequalities in healthcare access, with many families unable to afford rising costs. Citing increasing instances of suffering and impoverishment caused by medical expenses, Karua criticized the government’s lack of transparency and failure to engage citizens in shaping the policy.
Government’s Response and SHA Implementation Challenges
The SHA, introduced as part of the government’s UHC framework, aims to provide affordable and inclusive healthcare. However, President William Ruto’s administration has faced criticism for its rushed implementation and lack of clarity on the program’s operational framework.
President Ruto, speaking on November 16, acknowledged the challenges faced by the SHA and promised to address the concerns raised by Kenyans and stakeholders. He emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring healthcare as a constitutional right.
“I want to assure Kenyans and the bishops that we will rectify the issues they have pointed out because UHC will make sure no citizen is left behind. Health is a right for every Kenyan,” Ruto said.
In an effort to showcase SHA’s efficiency, Ruto highlighted plans to clear all outstanding health claims filed in October within a week, crediting the streamlined processes under the Digital Health Act. The President also encouraged Kenyans to register with the SHA, questioning criticisms from those yet to join the system.
“Don’t wait until you are sick because we are all candidates for sickness. Now, you as a Kenyan haven’t registered for SHA, but you are complaining it is not working. How do you know it is not working if you haven’t registered in the first place?” Ruto remarked.
A Healthcare System Under Scrutiny
Karua’s critique reflects growing public discontent over the SHA’s perceived inefficiencies and inequities. Many Kenyans argue that the program has disrupted a system that, while imperfect, provided a predictable structure for healthcare financing.
Analysts point out that the SHA’s earnings-based contribution model disproportionately affects lower-income groups. Additionally, the lack of public awareness and unclear guidelines have fueled confusion, making it difficult for citizens to navigate the system.
The Path Forward
Karua urged the government to prioritize transparency and public participation in reshaping the healthcare policy. She called for a comprehensive review of the SHA to address its shortcomings and restore public trust in the system.
“Access to healthcare is not just a policy; it is a matter of life and death for many families. The government must act urgently to rectify this situation,” Karua said.
As the debate over Kenya’s healthcare reforms continues, the government faces mounting pressure to ensure that UHC delivers on its promise of equitable and affordable healthcare. Whether the SHA can fulfill this mandate remains to be seen, but for now, it has become a lightning rod for public frustration and political criticism.
