The Social Health Authority (SHA) has officially launched a national campaign to boost employer compliance with the Social Health Insurance Act, starting in Nairobi where over 12,900 employers have been flagged for non-compliance, with unpaid contributions amounting to more than KES 3 billion.
Speaking during the launch, SHA leadership emphasized that the exercise is not about punishment but partnership. The aim is to support employers in understanding and fulfilling their obligations to ensure a functional and fair health system for all Kenyans.
“Every hospital bill paid relies on timely contributions,” officials said, noting that while the government has already committed to covering primary healthcare, chronic and emergency care still require consistent support through employer contributions.
To ease payment for informal sector workers, SHA has introduced Lipa SHA Pole Pole, a flexible instalment plan with no waiting period for coverage. Meanwhile, a new digital compliance system is already in place to monitor remittances and track progress in real time.
This marks the first phase of the compliance campaign, with Kiambu, Kajiado, and other counties set to follow in the coming months. Employers have been urged to open their doors, engage with SHA officers, and commit to timely remittances.
“This is a new SHA, with a new mandate. Let’s build a system that truly works for all,” the Authority said.
