President William Ruto has strongly urged Kenyans to disregard any misinformation about the new Taifa Care universal health coverage, emphasizing that registration for the program is free and the government will cover the costs for those unable to pay. Speaking during the launch of the Lower Nzoia Irrigation Project Phase 1-Lot 2 on Wednesday, Ruto assured citizens that unlike the defunct National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF), which required individuals to have a source of income to be covered, Taifa Care would offer health services to all Kenyans, whether employed or not.
Ruto pointed out that Taifa Care, under the Social Health Authority (SHA), is designed to ensure that every Kenyan has access to medical treatment and medication, regardless of their financial status. The President underscored that this initiative is a fulfillment of his promise during the election campaigns to reform the healthcare sector. Under the previous NHIF system, only those with a stable income could be covered, leaving a large section of the population without health insurance. However, with Taifa Care, the government will step in to fund those who are unable to pay the registration fee.
“If you are not able to pay, the government will pay for you,” Ruto reassured the public, highlighting that the primary goal of the program is to provide universal healthcare coverage. He added that by registering for the SHA, the government would be able to track the number of people in need of healthcare services, ensuring that hospitals receive the necessary resources—such as medicine, equipment, and medical staff—to meet the demand.
The President also addressed claims made by some elected leaders who are opposed to the new program, suggesting that their opposition stems from the fact that they are now required to contribute more than the Sh1,700 they previously paid under NHIF. He urged Kenyans not to be swayed by these leaders or any negative messages circulating about the program.
Ruto was accompanied by several senior leaders, including Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, and Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, who also reiterated the government’s commitment to improving healthcare services for all Kenyans.
As the country continues to battle healthcare challenges, Taifa Care represents a significant step toward providing equitable access to medical services for all citizens, irrespective of their employment status or financial capacity.
