Kenya officially launched Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in 2018 with the aim of providing essential healthcare services to all citizens, especially the most vulnerable. The government started with a phased approach, prioritizing affordable and quality care. The vision was clearnto ensure that every Kenyan, no matter their income, location, or social status, could access the healthcare they need.
Today, Dr. Deborah Barasa, the Cabinet Secretary for Health, discussed the NHIF’s focus on only 20% of Kenyans—the employed population. With Universal Health Coverage (UHC), she stresses that the government is committed to ensuring it leaves no Kenyan behind.
“Everyone should have access to affordable, quality healthcare,” Dr. Barasa said. Also she highlighted the role of the Social Health Authority (SHA) in making healthcare inclusive for all, especially the underserved.
She also mentioned specialized groups like teenage mothers and refugees, many of whom lack national IDs. She emphasized that every Kenyan deserves healthcare, regardless of their background.
Dr. Deborah shared that the government is training healthcare providers, raising awareness, and improving digital platforms to implement UHC smoothly.
“Our goal is to make UHC a reality in Kenya. This occurs where even the most vulnerable can access healthcare like the wealthiest,” she said.
Dr. Barasa also addressed marginalized groups like teenage mothers and those with mental health challenges, who often lack IDs but can now access services through SHA. She explained that they introduced unique identifiers to ensure these groups receive timely, quality care.
