The National Assembly Health Committee has expressed grave concerns over the ongoing failures in the implementation of the Social Health Authority (SHA), warning that system breakdowns threaten to cripple healthcare services nationwide. Lawmakers highlighted patient struggles in accessing services despite SHA registration and urged the Ministry of Health to swiftly address delays and closures.

• MPs noted that reforms must not come at the expense of patients, with Seme MP James Nyikal stating that improvements should be seen within one month of recommendations being acted upon.
• The committee criticized the abrupt phasing out of the now-defunct National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) system, which left hospitals with unpaid arrears.
• Legislators lauded the crucial role of faith-based hospitals like St. Mary’s Hospital and St. Elizabeth Mukumu for providing affordable and high-quality care to vulnerable communities for decades.