Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has urged all Kenyans to actively participate in transforming the healthcare sector by enrolling in the Social Health Insurance (SHI) scheme and reporting service delivery issues through official government channels.
Speaking at the Social Health Authority (SHA) headquarters, the Cabinet Secretary emphasized that restoring public trust and ensuring accountability in the health system begins with individual responsibility. He called on those who have not yet enrolled to do so promptly using the *147# USSD code or the Afya Yangu digital platform.
Duale highlighted the importance of public vigilance and feedback in the reform process, encouraging citizens to use the SHA’s 24/7 quality hotline 147 to report any issues or inefficiencies they encounter while accessing services. He noted that such collaborative engagement would enhance transparency, eliminate inefficiencies, and support the broader vision of delivering equitable, people-centered healthcare across the country.
In a significant development aimed at improving health service delivery, Duale announced the deployment of 6,484 healthcare interns effective July 1, 2025. This move is seen as a major boost to Kenya’s healthcare human resource capacity and a step forward in the implementation of Universal Health Coverage (UHC). According to the CS, adequate staffing at all levels of the health system is key to realizing quality and accessible services for all.
Reiterating the government’s commitment to the successful rollout of TaifaCare, the country’s revamped health insurance programme, Duale outlined three core pillars driving the initiative: financial sustainability through timely contributions, zero tolerance for fraud, and guaranteed universal access to high-quality care. He stressed that regular and consistent premium payments would ensure the programme’s long-term viability and reliability.
In a stern reminder to employers, the CS stated that it is a legal requirement to remit employee contributions by the 9th of each month. Compliance with this regulation is not only a matter of legal duty but also crucial in maintaining a stable and responsive health financing system.
To strengthen oversight and curb misuse of resources, Duale highlighted the integration of digital platforms within the Ministry of Health. These platforms enable real-time tracking of financial and operational data, allowing authorities to maintain transparency and ensure responsible stewardship of public health funds.
He concluded by reaffirming that a united approach driven by both government leadership and citizen participation is essential to achieving lasting improvements in Kenya’s healthcare system.
