Health Ministry Calls on MPs to Support SHA Registration Campaign

In a hurry? Here’s a quick summary…

  • Health CS Mulongo urged MPs to support the Social Health Authority (SHA) registration drive, addressing misinformation and technical challenges hindering public participation.
  • She assured affordable healthcare access under SHA, clarified Linda Mama benefits, and outlined plans for NHIF staff transition.
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula, Health CS Deborah Mulongo Barasa, and Senate Speaker Amason Kingi at a function on December 3, 2024.

Health Cabinet Secretary Deborah Mulongo has urged Members of Parliament to support the ministry’s efforts to increase registration for the new Social Health Authority (SHA) scheme. 

Speaking during a Speaker’s Kamkunji session, she addressed common concerns and called for collective action to combat misinformation that has hindered public participation in the program.

CS Mulongo acknowledged progress, with 9.8 million Kenyans already registered under SHA, but highlighted persistent challenges. 

Many citizens are reluctant to register due to misinformation, such as claims of hidden fees. 

She emphasized the importance of leadership in countering these narratives, noting that registration is free and essential for accessing services.

Senate Speaker Amason Kingi and National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula echoed her concerns, stressing the need for better public sensitization. 

Read Also:

Raila Odinga Mocks Gachagua’s Political Downfall at Thanksgiving Ceremony

Ruto Reaches Out to Church, Addresses Criticism

Family Sets the Record Straight on Medic Found Dead with US-Based Lover

Kingi pointed out that social media influencers had fueled confusion, while Wetangula highlighted the role of leaders in encouraging registration and ensuring access to government healthcare initiatives.

The SHA rollout has faced technical and logistical hurdles, particularly for vulnerable populations. 

Nominated MP Sabina Chege noted issues such as errors when registering elderly individuals and documentation requirements like marriage certificates that many older citizens lack. 

Chege called for a focus on affordable and accessible healthcare for all, especially in underserved regions.

CS Mulongo provided an update on Universal Health Care implementation, SHA benefits, and standardized medical costs across facilities. 

She clarified misconceptions, including fears that the Linda Mama maternity package had been discontinued. 

Under SHA, the package now covers the entire household, extending care to mothers, children, and spouses.

Addressing the transition of NHIF staff to SHA, ministry officials assured members that employees would be seconded to the Public Service Commission for six months, after which decisions on permanent roles would be made. 

This measure aims to balance continuity and efficiency during the transition process.

Mulongo expressed optimism about achieving Vision 2030’s goal of affordable, accessible, and quality healthcare for all Kenyans, despite initial setbacks. 

She reiterated the need for unified efforts to ensure no Kenyan is left behind in the journey toward universal health coverage.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *