Nairobi: The National Treasury has unveiled a proposal to allocate Sh177.2 billion in the 2026/27 financial year to further Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in Kenya. This initiative aims to enhance access to quality healthcare and improve service delivery across the nation.
According to Kenya News Agency, John Mbadi, the Cabinet Secretary for the National Treasury, emphasized that equitable healthcare access is crucial for human capital development and economic growth. As part of ongoing reforms in primary healthcare, 31.2 million Kenyans are now registered under the Social Health Authority (SHA). To improve service delivery at the grassroots level, the government has recruited 107,831 Community Health Promoters and deployed 16,810 medical interns.
The proposed budget includes Sh19.1 billion for the Primary Healthcare Fund and Sh8.6 billion for the salaries of UHC staff. Additionally, Sh18.5 billion is earmarked for the Global Fund to support disease control and immunization programs, with Sh6.4 billion allocated for vaccines. For specialized care, Sh3.0 billion is proposed for emergencies and chronic illnesses, alongside Sh45.3 billion for referral hospitals to facilitate access to specialized treatment.
Mbadi also highlighted significant infrastructure projects, including Sh2.0 billion for a new 2,000-bed facility at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, as well as funds for cancer care expansion and equipment upgrades at Kenyatta National Hospital. To bolster health systems, Sh20.9 billion has been set aside for the Kenya Medical Supplies Authority, with additional funding for training institutions, medical interns, and Community Health Promoters.
The investments are designed to strengthen healthcare delivery, improve access, and alleviate the burden of disease nationwide. Mbadi noted that the aim is to create an economy that benefits all Kenyans, with manageable living costs, expanding employment and business opportunities, and equitable distribution of economic growth benefits.
