The Government will allocate an additional Sh7.8 billion to support the treatment of chronic diseases and critical care services under the Taifa Care programme, according to Deputy President Kithure Kindiki.
In the supplementary budget to be presented in the National Assembly this week, Sh3 billion will be earmarked for chronic and critical illness care, while another Sh3 billion will go toward primary healthcare.
Additionally, Sh1.8 billion will be dedicated to enhancing maternal healthcare services.
A new, data-driven, and consistent Means Testing Tool will be introduced starting March 1 to provide a precise and scientific assessment of all citizens registered with the Social Health Authority.
The updated tool, developed with input from citizens and stakeholders, aims to ensure predictable premium payments for all registered citizens and eliminate any potential for manipulation.
“The successful implementation of the Universal Healthcare Coverage programme remains a top priority for the Kenya Kwanza Administration as part of its broader economic transformation agenda. To date, 19.5 million Kenyans are registered, and efforts continue to ensure that every citizen has access to medical coverage. We urge all registered citizens to make their monthly contributions to sustain Taifa Care,” said Kindiki.
In response to the withdrawal of funding for key healthcare programmes by the US Government, Kenya has implemented contingency financing plans to ensure the uninterrupted delivery of services to its people.
Kindiki made these statements following the National and County Governments Health Summit, where the implementation of Taifa Care was reviewed, and a consensus was reached on administrative and policy measures to promote efficient and sustainable Universal Health Coverage.
The summit was attended by Health Cabinet Secretary Dr. Deborah Mulongo, Principal Secretaries, Council of Governors Chairman Ahmed Abdullahi, Moses Kuria (Senior Advisor to the President’s Council of Economic Advisors), senior National and County Government officials, and various health sector stakeholders.
