Health Cabinet Secretary Nakhumicha S. Wafula presided over the public participation engagement forum with her ministry staff on the transition of the National Hospital Insurance Fund to the Social Health Insurance Fund.

In an event that brought together Medical Services PS Harry Kimtai, acting Health Director General Dr Patrick Amoth, ministry parastatal Board Chairpersons and CEOs, and heads of Directorates among others, the CS underscored the need for sensitization among Kenyans on the reforms.

During Tuesday’s exercise, Nakhumicha called upon employees of the Ministry to adequately and appropriately disseminate information on the Social Health Authority [SHA] to inform Kenyans of proper education and public awareness ahead of the implementation and commencement of these directives.

She further urged members of the public to continue submitting views on the regulations currently under public participation that is clearly outlined in article 10 of the Constitution of Kenya 2010, where democracy and people’s participation, human rights, among others, are identified as essential national values and principles of governance.

Earlier during the day, the CS had unveiled the SHA Transition Committee that will draw a roadmap towards smooth and seamless transfer of services to the new entity. Kap-Kirwok Jason leads the Committee.

Other members of the committee are Daniel Mwai, Kipruto Chermusoi Chesang, Jacinta N Wasike, Gladys Wambui Mburu, Stephen Kaboro Mbugua, Elizabeth Wangia, Christopher Leparan Tialal, Jacob Otachi Orina and Stanley Bii.

Under the new Social Health Act of 2023, a person currently registered as a member of the repealed NHIF shall register afresh with the Social Health Authority as a member of the Social Health Insurance Fund.

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