Universal Health Coverage Goals Accelerated

Kenya’s Ministry of Health has announced a major acceleration of reforms aimed at achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) under its Taifa Care program. Health Cabinet Secretary Dr. Deborah Barasa reported that over 17.8 million Kenyans had already registered with the Social Health Authority (SHA) by mid-January 2025 — including people transitioning from the former NHIF system.
The reform agenda is centered on overhauling health financing, expanding digital health infrastructure, and reinforcing service delivery. For instance, the Ministry has reoriented payments to health facilities to reflect actual services delivered, rather than relying on legacy insurance models — a move intended to boost fairness, transparency, and efficiency.
A central pillar of the strategy is the strengthening of Primary Health Care (PHC). PHC now receives dedicated tax funding, ensuring that front-line health services remain accessible and free for patients — a key foundation for long-term UHC. Moreover, the Ministry is pushing digital platforms, including a Health Information Exchange, to connect health facilities across the country and streamline data-driven decision-making.
Also boosting momentum is a growing partnership with development partners. The Health Cabinet Secretary met with the World Bank in July 2025 to align on shared investments in UHC — including expanding community health services, improving commodities supply chains, and strengthening the SHA insurance scheme.