Kenya: Kindiki Sets August 2027 Target for Universal SHA Registration

Kenyan Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has set a target to achieve universal healthcare coverage by registering all 40 million Kenyans under the Social Health Authority (SHA) by August 2027. This ambitious goal, unveiled during the Kenya Health Summit, aims to make healthcare universally accessible under the Taifa Care programme.

Kindiki emphasized that the government is intensifying efforts to reach this target, having already registered 32 million people over the past two years. The Deputy President highlighted the government's commitment to improving healthcare access by expanding the healthcare workforce, enhancing remuneration, and equipping facilities.

Since 2022, the government has deployed 24,573 healthcare interns, sponsored 262 medical registrars, and committed to recruiting 5,000 more nurses and midwives. Additionally, 107,000 Community Health Promoters (CHPs) have been recruited to serve as the first point of contact for community members seeking medical care. The government has also bolstered the availability of medical equipment, with Sh9.8 billion worth of supplies delivered to 239 health facilities across 44 counties.

Furthermore, the Primary Healthcare Fund has allocated Sh27.4 billion, supporting over 20 million outpatient visits for 15 million Kenyans. The Deputy President expressed optimism about the government's progress, stating that the reforms aim to translate increased investment into reliable, quality healthcare services for all Kenyans.