Government Sets 25-Day Deadline for Civil Servants to Register for New Social Health Insurance Fund
The government has issued a 25-day deadline for all civil servants to register for the newly introduced Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF), starting September 5, with the ultimatum ending on October 1. Despite weeks of public outreach, enrollment in the new scheme has been slow.
Recent government data shows that only 861,000 Kenyans have registered for the Social Health Authority (SHA), a mere 6% of the 14 million who were part of the now-defunct National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF).
In context, there are about one million civil servants employed at different levels of the government.
This slow registration reflects widespread confusion, misinformation, and concern about replacing NHIF. The timeline is essential for the success of SHIF, as contributions from citizens are key to its sustainability.
Although contributions are mandatory, the government faces a challenge in convincing Kenyans to embrace the new system, as many remain reluctant to sign up.
Digging deeper, government spokesperson Isaac Mwaura stressed the importance of meeting the registration deadline. Ministries like Energy and ICT have been tasked with ensuring the necessary infrastructure, such as power and internet, is in place at health facilities.
This directive follows a prior mandate requiring parents to register their children under SHIF, further underlining the government’s drive to reform the healthcare system by ensuring all public employees are enrolled.
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Mwaura also disclosed that 9,792 health facilities, including 2,008 public and 7,784 private and faith-based institutions, are now accredited under SHIF.
He highlighted that both the Ministries of Education and Interior play crucial roles in this process, with the National Government Administrative Offices (NGAOs) network being instrumental in local implementation efforts.
Mwaura further explained that the transition from NHIF to SHA involves more than just a rebranding. It includes benefits like full digitization, biometric verification, an expanded coverage package, and lower monthly premiums.
Salaried employees will now contribute 2.75% of their gross income, while contributions for informal workers will be determined based on income levels.
As registration timelines tighten, the Ministry of Education has been given the responsibility of ensuring students are registered, reinforcing the government’s goal of universal healthcare for all age groups.
One of the standout features of SHIF is the government’s commitment to covering premiums for low-income Kenyans, vulnerable individuals, and those in custody.
Mwaura noted that social protection programs would support those unable to afford premiums, providing much-needed relief to financially burdened households.
Healthcare providers are another key element of the transition. Mwaura stated that draft contracts with providers are nearly finalized, and after tariff approvals, the government will fully engage with healthcare providers to ensure a seamless shift to SHIF.
He added that the SHA card will provide access to healthcare at all public, private, and faith-based institutions.
Government Sets 25-Day Deadline for Civil Servants to Register for New Social Health Insurance Fund
