By Kelvin Sang
The Ministry of Health has officially rolled out the Social Health Authority (SHA) and TaifaCare in Uasin Gishu County, marking a major milestone in Kenya’s journey toward Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
The activation, held at the Uasin Gishu County Headquarters, was presided over by Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale, alongside Governor Jonathan Bii, SHA CEO Dr. Mercy Mwangangi, DHA CEO Eng. Antony Lenaiyara.
Other senior national and county health officials were also present.
CS Duale hailed the rollout as a “turning point” in Kenya’s health sector, aligning with the constitutional promise of the right to health for all.
“SHA and TaifaCare are a transformational step in building a health system that works for every Kenyan. From today, wananchi in Uasin Gishu and across the country can register, contribute, and access services with dignity — without fear of being locked out due to cost or bureaucracy,” said Duale.
“With this, health is now in your hands. Through USSD (147#), the app, and community registration desks, we have made access simple, transparent, and inclusive.”
What Governor Bii said about SHA rollout in Uasin Gishu
Governor Bii commended the government’s reform agenda and pledged county support.
“Uasin Gishu is honoured to be among the first counties to operationalize SHA and TaifaCare. This reform brings hope to our people, especially the most vulnerable households,” said Governor Bii.
“We have invested in health infrastructure and strengthened our Community Health Promoters. When people power meets digital tools, true transformation happens. We are ready to lead by example.”
SHA CEO Dr. Mercy Mwangangi highlighted SHA’s role in delivering fairness and protecting households from financial hardship.
“Our vision is simple: no Kenyan should be pushed into poverty because they sought healthcare. SHA is designed to be equitable, inclusive, and sustainable,” said Dr. Mwangangi.
“We are working with all counties to ensure vulnerable groups, including people with disabilities and low-income families, are fully covered and supported.”
What’s the importance of digital innovation in health sector
Meant, DHA CEO Eng. Antony Lenaiyara emphasized the importance of digital innovation in the health sector.
“We are building a digital backbone for Kenya’s health system — linking patients, providers, and policymakers in real time. Uasin Gishu is among the pioneers in adopting this change,” he said.
“Every Kenyan will eventually have a secure digital health identity, making services faster, safer, and more accountable. This is the future of healthcare.”
CS Duale also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to public education, county partnerships, and accountability:
“These reforms are not about replacing one system with another — they are about building trust and protecting lives. With strong county partnerships like here in Uasin Gishu, we are confident SHA and TaifaCare will deliver real change,” he further said.
