Kenya Advances Universal Health Coverage Goals Amid Transformative Reforms
As of January 13, 2025, over 17.8 million Kenyans have registered with the Social Health Authority, including 13.2 million new members and 4.6 million transitioned from the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF). The SHA is pivotal in providing equitable access to healthcare services across the country.
Cabinet Secretary for Health Dr. Deborah Barasa, speaking during a media briefing on UHC progress. Photo/Ministry of Health.
The Ministry of Health reaffirmed its commitment to delivering Universal Health Coverage (UHC) as part of the Kenya Kwanza administration’s agenda, emphasizing its alignment with Vision 2030, the Kenya Health Policy Framework 2014–2030, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Cabinet Secretary for Health Dr. Deborah Barasa, speaking during a media briefing on UHC progress, highlighted the strides made in healthcare financing, service delivery, and human resource development to ensure that “no Kenyan is left behind.”
Key Milestones in UHC Implementation
Social Health Authority (SHA) Registration
As of January 13, 2025, over 17.8 million Kenyans have registered with the Social Health Authority, including 13.2 million new members and 4.6 million transitioned from the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF). The SHA is pivotal in providing equitable access to healthcare services across the country.
Vaccine Accessibility
The Ministry’s expanded immunization efforts received a boost in December 2024, with deliveries of key vaccines, including HPV, malaria, rotavirus, and BCG. These efforts aim to protect millions of children and vulnerable populations, underscoring the government’s commitment to preventive healthcare.
Digital Health Transformation
A major leap in healthcare modernization is underway through the “Digital Health Superhighway,” facilitated by the Health Information Exchange system. Over 8,500 health facilities have enrolled in the Health Provider Portal, with 87% actively using it to enhance data-driven decision-making and patient care.
Health Service Delivery
Progress in service delivery is evident, with fully immunized child coverage reaching an impressive 93% as of October 2024. Additionally, outpatient visits averaged 4.6 million, while inpatient admissions totaled 176,385 by the end of December 2024.
National Equipment Service Program (NESP)
The NESP has enhanced access to critical medical services, including radiology, ICU care, and surgery. Forty-five counties have signed Implementation Partner Agreements (IPAs), and 35 counties have placed requisitions to equip 594 health facilities under the Fee-for-Service model.
Encouraging Public Participation
The Ministry has urged all Kenyans to register with the SHA and actively participate in shaping a future where healthcare is accessible, affordable, and of high quality.
“These reforms reflect our determination to ensure that every Kenyan, regardless of income or location, can access the healthcare they deserve,” Dr. Barasa affirmed.
With UHC implementation accelerating, Kenya is setting a strong example for equitable and sustainable healthcare reforms, inching closer to achieving its Vision 2030 goals.
About Author
