SHA to raise Sh90 billion annually to support Universal Health Coverage

Health CS Aden Duale./COURTESY

Kenya will generate about Sh90 billion every year through the Social Health Authority (SHA) to fund Universal Health Coverage (UHC), reducing dependence on external borrowing.

Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale shared President William Ruto’s remarks on the SHA funding model, which aims to provide sustainable healthcare financing.

“From our own contributions in SHA, we are going to have something like 90 billion every year,” President Ruto said.

The funds will be mobilised locally under a model designed to ensure that all Kenyans contribute fairly while enjoying equal access to health services. The approach signals a shift towards self-reliance in financing the country’s healthcare system.

Alongside the SHA, the government has secured medical equipment worth more than Sh200 billion through a leasing arrangement. This initiative is meant to equip hospitals across the country without requiring large upfront payments.

“From our own resources in equipment, we have mobilised and designed innovative, creative mechanism of delivery of equipment, now taking equipment to hospitals worth 200 billion,” President Ruto added.

Under this arrangement, facilities will access, use and pay for the equipment through service agreements, ensuring consistent care delivery.

The Head of State also revealed that an additional Sh300 billion has been mobilised through intellectual and institutional planning to strengthen healthcare delivery.

The investment is intended to help hospitals acquire modern technology and infrastructure, easing the financial burden on public health institutions.

The combined effect of SHA-generated funding, leased equipment, and planned investments forms the backbone of the government’s UHC strategy.

Officials say it will expand hospital capacity, bring quality healthcare closer to communities, and improve service delivery across counties.

By relying on internal resources and innovative financing methods, Kenya aims to cut reliance on loans and foreign aid in building a strong healthcare system.

The reforms are part of the wider plan to make healthcare accessible, affordable, and efficient for all Kenyans.