The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) has strongly defended President William Ruto’s health agenda, insisting that the newly expanded Linda Jamii programme surpasses the previous Linda Mama scheme initiated under retired President Uhuru Kenyatta.
Speaking on Saturday, UDA Secretary General Hassan Omar said Uhuru’s comparison was incomplete and failed to acknowledge the improvements brought under Ruto’s administration.
“Linda Jamii is ahead in terms of scope, quality, and inclusivity,” Omar stated, underscoring that the programme delivers benefits beyond maternity care.
Expanded Coverage
Unlike Linda Mama, which catered only to mothers during delivery, Linda Jamii now managed under the one-year-old Social Health Authority (SHA)—extends to the entire household. Beneficiaries include the mother, newborn baby, spouse, and children.
The package also covers antenatal, delivery, and post-natal care, alongside treatment for complications affecting both mother and child. This includes access to ICU and HDU services, a significant upgrade from Linda Mama, which limited patients to ward care.
Higher Payment Rates
Payment rates under Linda Jamii reflect the cost of quality healthcare. Normal delivery is set at Sh10,000, double the Sh5,000 under Linda Mama, and up to Sh30,000 in Level 6 hospitals. Caesarean sections attract Sh34,200 for a three-day hospital stay, nearly double the Sh17,500 previously offered.
Omar further highlighted that SHA represents a universal health model, unlike the former National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF), which primarily served formal employees or those able to contribute.
Infrastructure Record
The UDA Secretary General also touched on Uhuru’s infrastructure record, citing Sh1.1 trillion in pending road bills at the end of his term. He said Ruto’s administration is adopting more sustainable financing, including using the Road Maintenance Levy Fund, to avoid unsustainable borrowing.
“This government is pursuing infrastructure development with prudence, accountability, and sustainability,” Omar emphasized.
