Day three of the National Assembly Mid-Term retreat saw Members engaging in crucial discussions with Dr. Abdi Mohamed, Chairman of the Social Health Authority (SHA), and Health Principal Secretary, Mr. Harry Kimutai on the status of implementation of the Social Health Authority, challenges being faced and the remedial measures being taken.
Dr. Mohamed revealed that, 18,510,650 Kenyans have been registered on the system, with those aged between 18 and 35 recording the highest registration representing 4.83 million of the total population, while those aged above 55 represent the lowest registration at 2.03 million.
Members also heard that the top 5 Counties by registration are Mombasa at 514,936 (43.2%); Kirinyaga at 176,273 (28.9%); Bomet at 240,641 (27.5%); Elgeyo Marakwet at 123,352 (27.1%) and Embu at 161,640 (26.6%).
National Assembly Speaker, Moses Wetang’ula led MPs in questioning the Health Ministry and SHA officials to task on the delays in service delivery and lack of access in their constituencies.
Speaker Wetang’ula directed the Chairperson of the Health Committee, Robert Pukose to meet with the Ministry of Health and representatives from the Social Health Authority next week to receive comprehensive responses regarding concerns raised by Members and thereafter issue a detailed response on February 11, 2025 when the National Assembly resumes.
“Based on the discussions there are two major issues with SHA; poor public communication and inadequate service delivery. I hereby direct the Chairperson, Departmental Committee on Health, Hon. Robert Pukose to get a transcribed Hansard report on all issues raised by Members of Parliament in this session and hold a meeting with the Ministry and SHA management next week,” directed Hon. Wetang’ula.
“You will issue a comprehensive report on the floor of the House on February 11, 2025 as the House resumes session. We need to know how to address the challenges,” he added.
