The Kenyan Ministry of Health has mandated nationwide biometric registration for patients accessing Social Health Authority (SHA) services, replacing the fraud-prone OTP-based authorization. This move, announced by President William Ruto, is aimed at curbing fraud and fake claims in the health sector.

• President Ruto stated that KSh 13 billion has been allocated for outpatient services in dispensaries, health centers, and sub-county hospitals, which should be offered free of charge.
• The reform also includes an KSh 8 billion Emergency and Critical Fund to ensure universal access to healthcare.
• SHA has paid KSh 52 billion in the 10 months since its launch in October 2023, significantly more than the former NHIF’s KSh 20 billion annually.