- President Ruto launches Social Health Authority (SHA) Sponsorship Programme.
- Over 2.2 million vulnerable Kenyans to get free healthcare.
- The plan is part of wider reforms to achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
- More citizens will be enrolled, especially from poor and marginalized areas.
- Experts praise the move as a big step in reducing medical costs.
President William Ruto has introduced the Social Health Authority (SHA) Sponsorship Programme, a plan that will see more than 2.2 million Kenyans access free medical services. The programme was launched at State House, Nairobi, as part of the government’s pledge to achieve Universal Health Coverage.
Speaking during the launch, Ruto said his administration is fully committed to ensuring no Kenyan is left out of healthcare because of poverty.
“We made an irrevocable commitment to deliver Universal Health Coverage for all Kenyans. Through the new SHA Sponsorship Programme, more than 2.2 million vulnerable Kenyans will now access medical care free of charge,” the President said.
He added that the government will continue adding more citizens to the programme to make healthcare fair and equal for all.
The initiative targets vulnerable groups, especially households in poor and marginalized areas. Officials confirmed that more Kenyans will be enrolled gradually as the system expands.
Health specialists and stakeholders have praised the programme, saying it will ease the burden on struggling families while improving health outcomes. They called it a milestone in Kenya’s journey to affordable healthcare for all.
