Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has defended the ongoing health sector reforms, assuring Members of the National Assembly that the Social Health Authority (SHA) is firmly on track to deliver affordable healthcare for all Kenyans.

Speaking during the 2026 Legislative Retreat in Nakuru County, CS Duale revealed that 29 million Kenyans have been registered under the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) with KSh 130.4 billion already collected in contributions and KSh 93.4 billion disbursed to health facilities nationwide.

“Health is not just a social service; it is a key economic pillar. A healthy nation is a productive nation,” said the CS said.

During the session themed “The State of Healthcare and the Legislative Roadmap to Universal Health Coverage,” MPs raised questions on equitable access, quality assurance, financing, and transparency in the ongoing health sector reforms.

Health Committee Chair, Hon. (Dr.) James Nyikal (Seme) sought clarity on the composition of the SHA benefits package, emphasizing the need to sensitize Kenyans on what the new fund covers.

“We need to clarify to the public the exact benefits and the cost of care under SHA to avoid misinformation,” said Dr. Nyikal.

In response, CS Duale confirmed that the Benefits Package and Tariffs Advisory Panel had finalized its review, identifying 39 procedures currently unavailable locally that would be eligible for overseas treatment.

“SHA will only pay for procedures not available in Kenya. We have capped the maximum payout at KSh 500,000 per case to maintain sustainability,” the CS said, noting that “a healthy nation is a productive nation.”

Hon. Martha Wangari (Gilgil) commended the Ministry for addressing staffing gaps at SHA but raised concern about the rising rate of caesarean deliveries.

“We need to de-incentivize unnecessary surgeries and ensure there are quality controls in place,” she said.

The Cabinet Secretary assured Members that the Quality Healthcare and Patient Safety Bill, 2025, now before the House, would strengthen oversight on standards of care. “This Bill will guarantee that the care paid for by SHA is care that cures, not care that harms,” he stated.

Hon. (Dr.) Makali Mulu (Kitui Central) questioned the criteria used to distribute medical equipment across counties. “Many hospitals in my area are not adequately equipped even for simple procedures,” he observed.

The CS reported that the government had invested KSh 6.18 billion in the National Equipment Support Project (NESP), which has equipped 120 county hospitals and six national facilities. “We have signed contracts with 16 facilities to ensure every hospital is adequately equipped to deliver quality care,” he said.

Hon. Dorothy Ikara (nominated) sought assurances on measures to combat counterfeit medicines in the market. “What safeguards are in place to protect Kenyans from fake drugs?” she asked.

CS Duale explained that digitization of the supply chain and reforms at KEMSA had greatly enhanced transparency.

“Our new system tracks every consignment in real time. Any facility or individual attempting to divert or counterfeit drugs will be detected and prosecuted,” he said.

Hon. Harold Kipchumba (Nominated) raised concerns on the limited coverage for long-term and therapeutic conditions, particularly for children requiring physiotherapy, occupational, or speech therapy. “These services remain unaffordable for many families. What support will SHA provide?” he asked.

CS Duale responded that the Authority is reviewing the long-term care package to progressively include therapies and chronic care support.

“We have already en-panelled premier facilities such as Aga Khan University Hospital and The Nairobi Hospital under SHA. Every Kenyan, including children with lifelong conditions, must access quality, affordable care,” he said.