Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has defended the Social Health Authority (SHA) against mounting criticism. He dismissed claims that the authority is failing and said his focus remains on reforms.
“Discuss substance not personalities. I will always have respect for Parliament and its leadership. My focus is on health reforms. Period,” Duale said.
Hospitals Suspended Over Irregularities
On August 26, 2025, SHA CEO Mercy Mwangangi announced the suspension of several hospitals. The facilities were accused of suspected irregularities.
A week later, SHA and the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) handed over 1,188 files to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI). The files detail alleged fraud and non-compliance in healthcare facilities.
“This action targets fraudulent and non-compliant healthcare facilities and individuals, marking a milestone in protecting public funds,” Duale said.
Hospitals Threaten Go-Slow
Despite the crackdown, hospitals are growing restless. On Friday, the Rural and Urban Private Hospitals Association of Kenya (RHUPHA-Kenya) issued a 14-day go-slow notice.
The association claims hospitals are owed Sh76 billion in unpaid claims under SHA and the defunct NHIF. Of this, Sh33 billion is linked to NHIF while Sh43 billion falls under SHA.
RHUPHA noted that most NHIF debts involve public and mission hospitals. Out of Sh33 billion, Sh15.2 billion is owed to 83 major facilities, including 23 public institutions.
Calls for Immediate Action
RHUPHA has demanded urgent payments. They want NHIF debts cleared in line with a presidential directive issued on March 5. They also want at least half of SHA’s Sh43 billion debt settled.
The group further called for improvements on the SHA claims portal to allow resubmission of valid claims that were earlier rejected.
What Lies Ahead
With pressure from Parliament, hospitals, and the public, the Ministry of Health faces a tough balancing act. It must stabilize SHA operations while pursuing reforms to secure the future of Kenya’s healthcare system.
