Health CS Aden Duale speaks during a public engagement at Voi stadium in Taita Taveta county on July 4, 2025. /ADEN DUALE/XHealth Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to Universal Health Coverage, declaring that all primary health care services are fully free of charge in public Level 2 to Level 4 health facilities across the country.
In a statement issued on Saturday, Duale emphasised that no Kenyan should be asked to pay for PHC services at these facilities under any circumstances, provided they are registered and have been activated to access the services under the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF).
“The range of free PHC services includes clinical consultations, diagnosis and treatment, prescribed laboratory tests, and dispensing of medication,” the CS said.
“Also covered are basic radiological services such as X-rays and ultrasound, management of both acute and chronic conditions, and mental health support.”
Other services available at no cost include immunisations under the Kenya Expanded Programme on Immunisation (KEPI), screening for common illnesses, minor outpatient procedures, and care for non-communicable diseases, sexually transmitted infections, and HIV/AIDS.
Comprehensive reproductive, maternal and child health services—including antenatal and postnatal care—are also part of the package.
Kenyans seeking mental health services, including education, counselling and psychosocial support as well as screening for common illnesses and minor outpatient procedures done under local anaesthesia, are also eligible for free medical care in the mentioned public health facilities.
Care for non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and enteric infections is also fully covered under SHIF.
Duale called for full cooperation from county governments and health workers to enforce the policy and ensure eligible Kenyans receive timely and dignified care.
The assurance comes amid ongoing efforts by the Ministry of Health to strengthen access to quality, affordable healthcare for all, in line with President William Ruto’s UHC agenda.
The UHC agenda is a key pillar of Ruto's administration’s health reforms aimed at ensuring all Kenyans have access to essential health services without facing financial hardship.
The UHC plan was officially launched in October 2023 and is anchored on the Social Health Insurance Act, 2023, comprising three new funds under the Social Health Authority (SHA).
Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF), which covers essential primary and secondary healthcare for all Kenyans.
Chronic Illness and Emergency Fund supports care for long-term diseases and emergencies.
Primary Healthcare Fund finances basic preventive and promotive care, including services at Level 1–4 facilities.
