Implementation Challenges Reported for Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and Social Health Authority (SHA) - September 2025

After three years in power, President William Ruto's government faces challenges implementing its Universal Health Coverage (UHC) promise, with the Social Health Authority (SHA) now responsible for the program. While SHA insurance has been operational for one year, Kenyans with chronic illnesses still face significant medical expenses. Some patients acknowledge a reduction in their financial burden, but frequent inconsistencies and hitches are reported as major obstacles to accessing treatment. Over the past three years, the Kenyan healthcare sector has faced significant challenges, including issues with public health insurance and strikes by medical professionals.