SHA Explains How Kenyans Can Get Health Cover Despite Struggling to Pay Contributions

Kenya’s Social Health Authority (SHA) outlined options for people struggling to pay Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) contributions, including instalments through Lipa Pole Pole and government assistance for indigent households. Jacqueline Ngonyo, SHA’s senior officer for registration and compliance, said formally employed workers contribute 2.75% of gross salary, while informal-sector and self-employed workers are assessed according to their means. People unable to pay any premiums can receive basic care free at Level 1, 2 and 3 public and mission facilities, while emergency, critical and chronic illness care is also covered. The government fully subsidises contributions for verified indigent households and zero-income individuals identified through means testing.