The Social Health Authority (SHA) has announced the appointment of four senior directors to strengthen its leadership structure and support its mission of delivering universal access to quality and affordable healthcare in Kenya.
The appointments mark a significant step in the Authority’s efforts to enhance efficiency, improve service delivery, and ensure financial risk protection for all Kenyans. Following a rigorous recruitment process that began in late July 2025, the SHA Board unveiled a team of highly experienced professionals who will play a key role in shaping the future of healthcare financing and management in the country.
The new leadership team includes Diana Marion, who assumes the role of Director of Provider and Beneficiary Management. In her new capacity, she will oversee relationships with healthcare providers while ensuring beneficiaries receive timely and effective services. Golda Larissa Akolo has been appointed as Director of Benefits and Claims Management, a position that will see her lead the critical task of streamlining benefits administration and managing claims efficiently.
Also joining the senior management team is Mohamed Alio Ibrahim, who takes over as Director of Corporate Services. His portfolio covers organizational support functions such as human resources, administration, and operational infrastructure to ensure smooth institutional performance. Rounding off the new appointments is Jonathan Leisen, who will serve as Director of Funds and Finance Management, overseeing financial planning, resource mobilization, and prudent use of funds.
The Board noted that the four directors bring extensive expertise, technical skills, and a wealth of experience across various sectors. Their collective knowledge is expected to significantly boost SHA’s capacity to deliver on its mandate of expanding healthcare access and protecting households from catastrophic out-of-pocket expenses.
The Authority is tasked with spearheading reforms aimed at ensuring that every Kenyan has access to affordable and quality healthcare services. The new team will be instrumental in driving policies and systems that not only prioritize efficiency but also reinforce accountability and sustainability in healthcare financing.
The unveiling of the new directors is seen as a pivotal moment for SHA as it seeks to strengthen its governance and operational framework. With the appointments now in place, the Authority is better positioned to accelerate its goal of achieving universal health coverage for all Kenyans.
