The government has stepped up the implementation of Universal Health Coverage (UHC) through the rollout of the Taifa Care model, a new framework aimed at ensuring all Kenyans can access affordable and quality healthcare services. Central to the success of the model is the ongoing registration of citizens under the Social Health Authority (SHA), which replaces the former National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) system.
The Taifa Care model marks a significant shift in how healthcare is financed and delivered in the country, with a focus on equity, sustainability, and preventive care.
Taifa Care is the government’s flagship UHC model designed to provide healthcare coverage for every Kenyan, regardless of income or employment status. Under the model, healthcare financing is structured around income-based contributions, with the State covering vulnerable populations who are unable to pay.
The system prioritizes; Primary healthcare and prevention, early diagnosis and treatment, reduced out-of-pocket medical expenses and a more transparent and accountable health financing structure
Health facilities across the country are being integrated into the Taifa Care system to ensure continuity of care at all levels, from community health units to referral hospitals.
As part of the reforms, the government has transitioned from NHIF to the Social Health Authority (SHA), which is mandated to manage health insurance contributions and benefits under Taifa Care.
SHA registration is now a key requirement for accessing public health services under the new system. Registered members will be eligible for healthcare benefits including outpatient and inpatient services, maternity care, chronic disease management, and emergency treatment.
The government has emphasized that SHA registration is not optional, as it forms the backbone of the Taifa Care model.
To fast-track implementation, a nationwide SHA registration exercise is underway, targeting individuals, families, and employers. Registration can be done digitally through official government platforms as well as physically at designated centers across counties.
Authorities have urged Kenyans to:
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Register early to avoid service interruptions
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Update personal and household information accurately
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Ensure dependants are captured in the system
Community health promoters and local administrators have been deployed to assist vulnerable populations, particularly in rural and informal settlements, to enroll in the new system.
Healthcare has long been a major financial burden for many Kenyan households, with high out-of-pocket payments pushing families into debt or forcing them to delay treatment. The Taifa Care model aims to address these challenges by pooling resources nationally and ensuring risk-sharing across the population.
Health sector experts note that if effectively implemented, Taifa Care could reduce catastrophic health spending, improve access to essential services, strengthen public healthcare facilities, promote preventive and primary healthcare.
However, they also caution that public awareness, transparency, and efficient service delivery will be critical to maintaining public trust in the new system.
Despite the promise of Taifa Care, some Kenyans have raised concerns over contribution rates, data privacy, and access to services during the transition period. In response, the government has assured the public that safeguards are in place and that adjustments will be made based on feedback.
Officials have reiterated that Taifa Care is a long-term reform intended to build a healthcare system that works for all Kenyans, not just those who can afford private insurance.
As the rollout continues, the success of Taifa Care will largely depend on widespread SHA registration, proper funding, and strong coordination between national and county governments.
For millions of Kenyans, the reforms represent a critical step toward realizing the constitutional right to the highest attainable standard of health — a promise that Universal Health Coverage seeks to fulfill.