Nationwide Registration for New Social Health Insurance Fund to Kick Off July 1

Health Cabinet Secretary Susan Nakhumicha announced that nationwide registration for the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) will begin on July 1, 2024. This initiative allows Kenyans to self-register via USSD code *147# or through the Social Health Authority (SHA) website at www.sha.go.ke. For those facing difficulties with self-registration, community health officials will provide assistance.

Key points from the CS's announcement include:

1. Registration Methods:

- Self-registration: Via USSD *147# or the SHA website.

- Assisted registration: Through Community Health Promoters, NHIF offices, and other designated registration points.

- Free Registration: No fees will be charged for registration.

2. Contributions:

- Current NHIF Contributions: Will continue until SHA is fully implemented.

- New SHIF Contributions: Salaried individuals will contribute 2.75% of their salaries. Unemployed individuals above 25 years old will pay Ksh300.

3. Transition:

- Finance Bill Impact: The withdrawal of the Finance Bill 2024 affects the Primary Healthcare Fund and Emergency, Chronic, and Critical Illness Fund. Existing NHIF contributions and benefits will remain until the transition to SHA is complete.

The goal is to ensure comprehensive health insurance coverage for all Kenyans, with various support mechanisms in place to facilitate smooth registration and contributions.