Kenyans show mixed views on the new Social Health Authority (SHA) services, according to a TIFA survey conducted in November 2025.
Slightly more than half (55 per cent) have registered with SHA, the government’s replacement for the old NHIF scheme.
Among those registered, 56 per cent have tried to access medical services through it, according to a survey where researchers spoke to 2,053 adults nationwide.
Of the people who used SHA services, half express satisfaction. Specifically, 29 per cent say they feel very satisfied, and another 35 per cent feel somewhat satisfied.
On the negative side, 15 per cent report being somewhat dissatisfied, and 22 per cent feel very dissatisfied. The remaining respondents stay neutral or unsure.
Political views influence these opinions. Supporters of the broad-based government – the partnership between President Ruto and the late Raila Odinga – rate SHA higher.
They found that 44 per cent of Kenyans now support the arrangement, up from 22 per cent in May 2025 and 29 per cent in August. Opposition stands at 48 per cent, the lowest level yet.
Among the broad-based government supporters, 37 per cent feel very satisfied, and another 38 per cent feel somewhat satisfied. Nine per cent report being somewhat dissatisfied, and 16 per cent feel very dissatisfied.
Older Kenyans register more often. Only 47 per cent of those under 35 have signed up, versus 65 per cent of people over 35. Age makes no difference in actually using the services, though.
The survey highlights challenges for the SHA rollout. Many Kenyans still face economic hardship, with unemployment and high costs topping concerns. Access to healthcare ranks low as a national problem, mentioned by few.
Yet satisfaction links to political alignment, suggesting trust in government plays a role. TIFA notes that SHA remains new. Deeper analysis could reveal why some register and others do not.
Factors like faith in government programmes or ease of access to facilities may matter.