NAIROBI — More than 22 million Kenyans have now signed up for the government’s new public health insurance scheme, with the coastal county of Mombasa leading the way in registration, according to Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale.
During a visit to the Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral and Research Hospital (KUTRRH) on Wednesday, Mr Duale praised the uptake of the Social Health Authority (SHA) platform, calling it “a turning point” in Kenya’s pursuit of universal healthcare.
“Mombasa stands at 58.9 percent,” Duale said. “Bomet has reached 51.7 percent and Nyeri is at 50.6. This shows that people are not only enrolling they are embracing the idea of shared responsibility in health.”
Other counties showing strong numbers include Elgeyo Marakwet, Kirinyaga, Kisumu and Lamu. In total, the Health Ministry reports that 22,327,488 people have registered, with nearly five million having completed means testing to determine what kind of care package they qualify for under the scheme known as Taifa Care.
On average, the ministry says, between 45,000 and 50,000 people register every day. A record 52,893 individuals signed up in a single day this week, contributing a total of Ksh 20.9 million within 24 hours.
“The overwhelming response reflects growing public confidence,” Duale told reporters. “People are not just signing up they’re paying into the system. That shows they believe in it.”
The SHA, launched earlier this year, is intended to replace the troubled National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF). The new structure promises tailored health packages depending on household income and needs, aiming to cover all Kenyans, regardless of their financial status.
Still, questions remain over whether the system will deliver on that promise. Some observers have warned about gaps in infrastructure, particularly in remote areas. Others have raised concerns about oversight and the handling of public contributions.
Focus on Transplants – and Ethics
While at KUTRRH, Duale also highlighted the hospital’s growing capacity in specialized care. The facility recently performed its first kidney transplant a milestone that the Cabinet Secretary said reflects Kenya’s rising capabilities in complex medical procedures.
But with that progress comes a warning.
“As transplant services grow, we must be vigilant,” he said. “We cannot allow any loophole for exploitation in organ donation.”
Duale confirmed that the Health Ministry is reviewing existing laws and policies to tighten controls around organ transplantation. The goal, he said, is to create a clear and ethical framework that ensures transparency and protects both donors and recipients.
Challenges Ahead
Despite the encouraging registration numbers, the road to full universal health coverage is far from smooth. Parliament has recently flagged concerns about gaps in budget allocations, with some lawmakers warning that without adequate funding, even the most ambitious schemes risk stalling.
Still, officials remain hopeful. With sustained public engagement and tighter oversight, the SHA could be a fresh start for a health system long burdened by bureaucracy and inequality.
“We are building something Kenyans can trust,” Duale said. “That’s our priority now.”
