MPs Demand Answers Over SHA Shortcomings

The National Assembly has directed Health Committee Chairperson Robert Pukose to seek responses on issues raised by Members of Parliament regarding the Social Health Authority (SHA) and present the answers when the house resumes next month.

On Thursday, legislators grilled Medical Services Principal Secretary Harry Kimtai and SHA Board Chairman Abdi Mohamed over the implementation of the new health program. Key concerns included poor service delivery, lack of communication, inadequate funding, unclear implementation frameworks, and the strained relationship between citizens and the healthcare system.

During their ongoing mid-retreat in Naivasha, the duo sought the backing of Members of the National Assembly for the SHA registration campaign.

MPs’ Concerns

Leader of the Majority Party, Kimani Ichung’wah, criticized SHA’s poor public outreach and lack of communication. He urged SHA to engage vernacular radio stations and simplify its messaging for better public understanding.

“Your communication is shambolic. MPs are mobilizing Kenyans on their own because SHA is failing in its role. If members of Parliament can’t explain the benefits, how do you expect villagers to understand?” Ichung’wah questioned.

He also called for greater accountability and efficiency from the semi-autonomous agency. “You are not communicating with Kenyans unless ministry officials speak. SHA, these MPs are trying on their own to mobilize Kenyans for registration. So, tell us what your challenges are?” he said.

Ichung’wah added that the laws enacted for SHA did not foresee the PS or ministry overseeing the authority. “The authority is semi-autonomous, and you must prove you have the capacity to manage it. If not, tell us and we will take the necessary measures,” he stated.

Kabondo Kasipul MP Eve Obara described the program as a “hard sell,” citing financial struggles and a lack of transparency. “My constituents are suffering. There are no services under this program. Can the ministry create a questionnaire to identify challenges and improve services?” she asked.

Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris echoed concerns about inclusivity, particularly for people with disabilities. “Families with disabled children are struggling to register them. What are you doing to address this?” she questioned.

Igembe Central MP John Paul Mwirigi decried the lack of services for registered patients, noting that the Taifa Care program is ineffective as many facilities are not offering services under the SHA program. “It’s heartbreaking that patients are denied treatment and medication despite being registered,” Mwirigi lamented.

Kitutu Chache South MP Anthony Kibagendi questioned how the SHA planned to address its funding shortfall and raise public awareness. “Your presentation is shallow and doesn’t address the core issue. The benefits of the SHA program are inferior to what NHIF was offering,” he criticized.

MOH Response

Mohamed disclosed that while 22 million Kenyans have registered under the Taifa Care program, only 4 million are active, paid-up members. He acknowledged the funding gaps but assured MPs that the government is working to resolve the issue.

“We acknowledge the financial challenges but remain committed to ensuring the success of this program. We are exploring partnerships with development agencies to bridge these gaps,” he explained.

The remaining 18 million are yet to contribute, attributed to poor communication, insufficient sensitization, and financial barriers. SHA officials urged MPs to champion the program in their constituencies, emphasizing its potential to provide equitable healthcare access.

“We need you as leaders to take this message to your constituents. Your support and involvement are critical to bridging the gap between the government and the people,” Mohamed urged MPs.

PS Kimtai reiterated that SHA is transformative and aimed at reducing healthcare burdens on vulnerable populations. “This is about equity in health services. We are counting on your leadership to make this vision a reality,” he stated.

SHA Acting CEO Robert Ingasira acknowledged challenges in communication and outreach but appealed to MPs to become goodwill ambassadors. He noted that despite setbacks, there is room to register more Kenyans and assured that service delivery gaps are being addressed.

“I thank all members who worked closely with us to increase numbers, with 22 million registered under the program. There is still room to register more Kenyans,” Ingasira said.