Kindiki assures Kenyans: ‘SHA stable despite Gachagua’s collapse warnings’

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has rejected claims by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua that the Social Health Authority (SHA) is nearing collapse, affirming that the health scheme remains secure and growing.

Speaking during a tour of market projects, road upgrades, and electricity initiatives in Karurumo, Runyenjes, Embu County, DP Kindiki encouraged Kenyans to continue registering and contributing to the SHA.

“Previously, only 7 million Kenyans were covered under the old NHIF plan, out of a population of 55 million. Today, over 30.2 million Kenyans are beneficiaries of SHA, and we are expanding its coverage to include all medical needs. This ensures that citizens do not have to depend on fundraising or charity for health care,” Prof Kindiki explained.

He dismissed Gachagua’s warnings as fear-mongering, calling him a “prophet of doom,” and projected that SHA membership would rise to 45 million by December, reaching full national coverage of 55 million by next June.

Earlier, Gachagua had expressed concerns over SHA’s financial stability, suggesting that unpaid debts to hospitals--especially faith-based and private facilities--could trigger operational challenges within six months.

He made the remarks while addressing congregants at ACK Diocese of Kirinyaga in Ndia Constituency on Sunday, March 29.

Kindiki urged patience from the opposition and called on all Kenyans to observe the ongoing transformations in the country’s health sector.