The transition to a new health scheme in Kenya has ignited considerable backlash, with many questioning the fate of their NHIF contributions.
Health Principal Secretary Harry Kimtai attempted to reassure Kenyans, stating that funds contributed to the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) will be securely transferred to the new scheme, known as the Social Health Assurance (SHA).
“Every contribution will be accounted for and carried forward to SHA,” Kimtai promised, addressing fears of potential financial losses amid concerns about the registration process.
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However, public skepticism remains strong, as many Kenyans voiced their frustrations during virtual training sessions meant for public health officials, interrupting discussions with protest songs highlighting government failures.
Despite the Ministry of Health's efforts to address the situation, numerous citizens have turned to social media to express their concerns about registration complications.
The Ministry has not yet provided the total number of registered individuals, and a crucial update meeting was unexpectedly canceled without explanation, raising further doubts about the smooth implementation of the Social Health Assurance (SHA) scheme.
NHIF management has assured employees that their job security is intact, with no layoffs planned during the transition to the Social Health Assurance (SHA) scheme.
As of Friday, approximately 1.9 million registrations have been recorded, and employers are urged to register their staff on the SHA portal by the approaching October 1 deadline for contributions.
The growing discontent underscores the government's challenges as it attempts to implement significant changes to Kenya’s health insurance landscape.
