- Over 598,000 Kisumu residents are now registered under the Social Health Authority (SHA), representing 52% of the county’s population.
- Duale says 200,000 people in the county have already undergone income-based assessment.
- New CT scan and mammography machines unveiled at JOOTRH under the national government’s NESP.
- CS Duale urges more public awareness and reporting of health sector malpractice through the toll-free line 147.
- Kisumu’s numbers are seen as a key win in the rollout of universal health care in Kenya.
Kisumu County has emerged as the country’s top performer in the registration drive for the new Social Health Authority (SHA), with Health CS Adan Duale confirming that more than 598,000 locals, about 52% of the population, have already signed up.
While launching modern CT scan and mammography equipment at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital, Duale praised the county’s commitment to strengthening healthcare. The machines were supplied through the National Equipment Service Program (NESP), a project by the government to enhance medical diagnosis in public hospitals.
According to Duale, 200,000 residents in Kisumu have gone through the SHA means testing process. On average, each is expected to contribute around KSh 573. This development is being viewed as a step in the right direction for a fair and income-based payment model under the new health coverage system.
The Health CS asked local authorities and health volunteers to increase sensitisation efforts. He stressed the importance of not only registering citizens but also ensuring they remain protected under the scheme.
“We are seeing positive uptake, but sensitisation must continue so that no one is left behind,” stated Duale. “The dignity of the patient must come first, above the interests of health facilities and personnel.”
Duale also reminded Kenyans of their role in ensuring accountability in healthcare. He encouraged citizens to report any malpractice by dialling the ministry’s toll-free number 147. He noted that transparency is a major priority as the government pushes to improve healthcare quality and ethics.
Kisumu’s performance is being seen as a critical early win in the larger goal of achieving Universal Health Coverage across the country. As Kenya begins its shift to a more patient-centred and inclusive health model, such progress offers hope that better care and equality in service delivery are achievable.
