SHA Warns Kenyans Against Fraudsters Impersonating Officials
Mwangangi stressed that the authority does not charge any unofficial fees or request gifts, commissions or other payments to expedite services.
The Social Health Authority (SHA) CEO Mercy Mwangangi. Photo: Courtesy.
By Robert Mutasi
The Social Health Authority has warned healthcare providers, beneficiaries and the public to be on guard against fraudsters posing as its officials and demanding money to facilitate access to its services.
In a public notice issued Friday, SHA Chief Executive Officer Mercy Mwangangi said the authority had received reports of individuals falsely claiming to be SHA officers and offering to fast-track claims processing, accreditation, registration and other services in exchange for payments.
Mwangangi stressed that the authority does not charge any unofficial fees or request gifts, commissions or other payments to expedite services.
“The Social Health Authority has received reports of individuals falsely presenting themselves as SHA officers and offering to facilitate claims processing, payments, accreditation, registration or other SHA services,” she said.
“SHA does not solicit money, gifts, commissions or any form of payment to expedite services, approvals, claims or payments. Any person demanding such facilitation is a fraudster.”
The authority said all its services are delivered through official government channels and not through individuals claiming to have influence within the institution.
According to SHA, services such as registration, healthcare provider accreditation and claims-related processes are available only through its branch offices and Huduma Centres across the country’s 47 counties.
The agency urged healthcare providers and beneficiaries to verify any communication claiming to originate from SHA before taking action or making payments.
It also cautioned the public against people promising preferential treatment, quicker approvals or faster processing of claims in return for financial inducements.
“We urge healthcare providers, beneficiaries and members of the public to remain vigilant and avoid engaging individuals claiming to offer preferential treatment or expedited services on behalf of SHA,” the notice said.
The authority encouraged anyone who encounters suspected fraud or impersonation to report the matter immediately through its official reporting channels.
Suspected cases can be reported through SHA’s dedicated email address, fraud@sha.go.ke, or by calling its toll-free hotline, 147. The authority also advised victims and witnesses to report fraudulent activities to the police for investigation and legal action.
The warning comes as SHA continues implementing Kenya’s public health insurance programme, with growing numbers of Kenyans registering for healthcare coverage and more health facilities seeking accreditation under the scheme.
Mwangangi urged the public to remain alert and help protect the integrity of the programme by reporting anyone attempting to exploit SHA’s name for personal gain.
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