Nairobi: Deputy President Prof. Kithure Kindiki has expressed confidence in the success of the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) initiative being implemented by the Social Health Authority (SHA), urging other African nations to follow Kenya’s lead in providing public-funded health insurance to all citizens.
According to Kenya News Agency, Kindiki spoke during the closing ceremony of the World Health Summit Regional Meeting at the United Nations office in Nairobi. He emphasized that Kenya’s Taifa Care is a constitutional obligation, not a political endeavor, aiming to ensure that no Kenyan is denied healthcare due to financial constraints.
Prof. Kindiki acknowledged the challenges faced by the initiative, which is in its second year following its launch in October 2024. He assured that the government is collaborating with partners to improve the system as more Kenyans join the scheme. Key improvements include ensuring essential medical supplies are available at all health facilities, especially in remote areas, hiring additional health personnel, and acquiring sufficient health infrastructure. Additionally, efforts are being made to enhance SHA’s actuarial science to ensure the sustainability of coverage.
The Deputy President urged African nations to adopt transformative health programs to safeguard the health of their citizens and promote the continent’s progress. He stressed the importance of political support, determination, and innovation to build a healthy continent.
Prof. Kindiki concluded with a strong message from the Nairobi 2026 summit, emphasizing that Africa’s health future must be actively constructed by its own efforts, requiring political courage, institutional discipline, and sustained investment to assert that African lives hold equal value on the global stage.
