Kenyans seeking specialized medical treatment abroad will continue to pay out-of-pocket as the Social Health Authority (SHA) is currently unable to cover these costs. The SHA Chief Executive Officer Mercy Mwangangi stated that legal and procurement processes must be completed before the authority can contract with foreign hospitals.

• The SHA cannot legally remit payments to overseas facilities until a formal procurement process is concluded, unlike the former NHIF.
• SHA CEO Mercy Mwangangi confirmed this before the National Assembly Public Investments Committee on Social Services on Wednesday, February 11.
• The contracting process with foreign hospitals is expected to be completed by the end of March 2026.
• Kenyans seeking treatment abroad will be eligible for up to Ksh 500,000 under the overseas package once contracts are in place.
• The move to follow strict procurement laws aims to prevent fraudulent claims and ensure accountability.