Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) is set to replace the EduAfya program, which previously provided medical insurance coverage for learners enrolled in all public secondary schools.
In a press statement, Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura asserted that the EduAfya had been manipulated by cartels to enrich themselves.
"No more taking advantage of school-going children through a nebulous medical scheme that was being used by cartels to enrich themselves. The flagship Social Health Insurance Fund will replace the scandalous EduAfya. The Government is committed to fulfilling the promises we made to Kenyans as outlined in the plan," Mwaura declared.
He pointed out that those who had taken advantage of the state were now resisting the change, as their lucrative source of income had run dry.
"Those who had captured the state are fighting back since their cash cow has run dry. This is in light of fighting corruption as promised. No more taking advantage of our kids through a nebulous medical cover that used public funds to enrich some few rich people."
Mwaura also said that the Kenya Kwanza government is determined to combat corruption and ensure that public funds are utilized for the benefit of the people.
Mwaura also said the government has disbursed Ksh10 billion for the National Government Constituency Development Fund (NGCDF).
Additionally, Ksh1.5 billion has been allocated to the National Government Affirmative Action Fund (NGAAF) to provide bursaries for needy students from hustler families.
"Kshs 10 billion has been disbursed in January 2024 for the National Government Constituency Development Fund (NGCDF). Kshs 1.5 billion for the National Government Affirmative Action Fund (NGAAF) to enable needy students from hustler families to get bursaries," Mwaura stated.
No more taking advantage of school going children through a nebulous medical scheme that was being used by cartels to enrich themselves. The flagship Social Health Insurance Fund will replace the scandalous EduAfya. The Government is committed towards fulfilling the promises we… pic.twitter.com/adJcUKn1Ko— Spokesperson GoK (@SpokespersonGoK) January 27, 2024
SHIF mandatory registration
On January 25, Mwaura announced the registration of the new health fund that will be mandatory for all Kenyans starting March 1.
The registration process, outlined in the recently enacted Social Health Insurance Act of 2023, will occur after completing the public participation phase and considering input from stakeholders.
The new law mandates the automatic enrollment of all newborns into the fund, ensuring that children born in the country become members from birth.
He said contributions to the fund will specifically target indigents, vulnerable individuals, and those under lawful custody, as determined by the National Assembly.
Additionally, the emergency, chronic, and critical illness fund will address chronic illnesses once the benefits from the Social Health Insurance Fund are exhausted, covering both chronic and emergency treatments.
Under the Social Health Insurance Act, non-Kenyans residing in the country for more than 12 months are eligible for registration in the Fund.
However, those planning to stay for less than 12 months must obtain travel health insurance coverage.
The Act further specifies that individuals eligible for registration with the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) must provide proof of compliance to access public services.
