Ruto: SHA to Increase Cancer Care Coverage from Ksh.550,000 to Ksh.800,000 Starting December
Ruto said the encouraging registration numbers were proof that Kenyans are willing and ready to embrace a more reliable, transparent, and efficient health financing model.
This enhanced package, he underscored, will make sure that no patient is compelled to abandon treatment or sink into poverty because of medical bills. Photo/Courtesy
By Ruth Sang
President William Ruto has announced a major boost to cancer care support in Kenya under the Social Health Authority, {SHA}, in a move that brings closer the realization of Universal Health Coverage, UHC. In his State of the Nation Address to Parliament on Thursday, the President announced that the cancer benefits package shall be increased from the current Ksh.550,000 to Ksh.800,000 effective December 1, 2025.
The President said this increase is motivated by the need for the healthcare support to match the increasing cost of treating cancer in the country. Cancer still ranks among the top ten health burdens in the country, with patients often suffering financial constraints resulting from long treatment cycles, specialized procedures, and continued medication. This enhanced package, he underscored, will make sure that no patient is compelled to abandon treatment or sink into poverty because of medical bills.
“This enhancement responds to the rising cost of sustained care for cancer and ensures that patients can access quality, uninterrupted treatment without facing financial constraint,” said President Ruto, adding that the government is committed to easing the burden on families affected by the disease.
The President also exuded confidence in the newly rolled out SHA system, which has effectively replaced the National Health Insurance Fund. He noted that there is rapid uptake and an increase in the public’s trust in the new scheme, as already 27 million Kenyans have registered. This, he noted, is over three times the highest number that was ever enrolled in the previously adopted system of NHIF.
Ruto said the encouraging registration numbers were proof that Kenyans are willing and ready to embrace a more reliable, transparent, and efficient health financing model. He went on to note that SHA’s success is an important pointer that the greater UHC agenda is on course, particularly as the government works to strengthen primary healthcare, increase access to essential services, and raise the quality of medical facilities across the country.
The improved cancer package is likely to greatly increase access to diagnosis, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgery, palliative care, and follow-up services. Financial barriers have long been cited by experts as one of the main reasons why cancer outcomes in Kenya remain poor. Increasing the level of financial protection offered by the government could help improve survival rates and promote early treatment, which tends to be more effective and less expensive. President Ruto said his administration was committed to lessening the disease burden through better funding, improved infrastructure, and continued reforms in health management. He called on all Kenyans to register with SHA to benefit from the expanded coverage and help build a sustainable and equitable national health system.
About Author
