- SHA Contribution Policy requires annual contributions
- Barasa warned that the lump-sum payment requirement risks excluding vulnerable populations
Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa now wants urgent amendments made to the Social Health Insurance Act (SHIA), warning that the current policy requiring annual contributions is unaffordable for many Kenyans.
Speaking during a church service at Our Lady of Assumption Parish Indangalasia in Koyonzo Ward, Matungu Sub-county, Barasa criticized Section 27 of the Act, terming it “punitive” and disconnected from the economic reality of millions of informal sector workers and low-income families.
“Healthcare is a right, not a luxury. SHA contributions must be affordable and flexible,” said the governor, urging Parliament to reinstate a monthly payment model that would ease the burden on struggling households.Barasa warned that the lump-sum payment requirement risks excluding vulnerable populations from essential healthcare coverage under the new system managed by the Social Health Authority (SHA).
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The Mass was led by Parish Priest Fr. Joseph Namanda and attended by senior county officials and Members of the County Assembly, including Majority Leader Hon. CPA Philip Maina.