Cabinet Secretary for Health, Dr. Deborah Mlongo Barasa, made her highly anticipated first appearance at Senate Question Time this morning at 9:30 AM, addressing pressing concerns regarding the Social Health Authority (SHA). The session came amid an ongoing crisis as private and mission hospitals continue to withdraw services over Ksh30 billion in unpaid bills.
One of the key issues raised was the transition from the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) to the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF). Lawmakers sought clarification on the amount of money that remained in NHIF accounts during the shift and the current status of those funds. Senator Enoc Wambua pressed the CS for details on the revenue collected under SHIF since its establishment in October 2024 and how those funds have been utilized. Lawmakers also inquired about the safeguards in place to prevent misappropriation of funds, a longstanding concern in Kenya’s public health financing.
Another major area of focus was the welfare of medical interns. Senators questioned CS Barasa about stipend payments, working conditions, and the mental and physical well-being of the interns. Medical trainees have been vocal about delayed allowances and inadequate support systems, issues that have led to unrest in the healthcare sector.
Additionally, concerns were raised regarding the Trump administration’s withdrawal of funding and the impact it could have on Kenya’s healthcare programs. The Kirinyaga Senator sought a comprehensive briefing on which programs would be affected and what mitigation strategies the government has put in place to ensure continuity of essential services.
Despite the challenges, the government has reaffirmed its commitment to delivering free primary healthcare across all public facilities. SHA assured Kenyans that registered members can continue to access these services without restriction. The authority disclosed that it has already disbursed Ksh5.1 billion this week, bringing total payouts since October 2024 to Ksh18.29 billion. Furthermore, a new capitation model has allocated Ksh1.3 billion to primary healthcare facilities, with 51% of the funds directed to private providers.
SHA has also contracted 8,600 healthcare providers to enhance accessibility, with a full list of approved facilities available online and at Huduma Centers.
As the Senate session unfolds, the nation awaits concrete solutions from the Ministry of Health to address the funding crisis and ensure uninterrupted access to quality healthcare.
