President William Ruto has disclosed the amount he personally contributes to the Social Health Authority (SHA). During the launch of the SHA Sponsorship Programme at State House, Ruto revealed that he is not exempt from contributing to the health insurance cover.
The launch marked a significant step in the nation’s commitment to achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
The President stated that his monthly deduction towards the new scheme is “Shilingi 40,000.”
“I pay Ksh40K every month, these leaders seated here pay from Ksh 29k every month. Others pay Sh5k, others Sh2k…and the least one pays only Ksh300,” Ruto said.
The president also acknowledged that there is a section of Kenyans who are unable to pay even the Ksh 300 and made it clear that those ones are paid for by the government.
The Cost of Coverage for Leaders
Speaking to attendees, President Ruto outlined the tiered system of contributions, emphasising that people must contribute in accordance with their ability.
Sponsorship Programme Targets Millions
According to Ruto, the government is making a bold statement that no Kenyan should be left behind regarding health access.
The government has committed to stepping in to pay for those without the means to contribute.
“Previously, there were hospitals that a common mwananchi couldn’t visit because they couldn’t afford to. But today, you can go even to Aga Khan, and in the queue, you might meet even the cabinet secretary there. The government of Kenya is paying for 2.2 million Kenyans,” he announced.
The goal is to transform health from being “a privilege for the people who have the means and the money” into a right for every citizen.
“We pledged that no Kenyan would ever again be forced to choose between buying essentials like food and others and seeking treatment or losing a loved one, because healthcare is beyond their reach.”
Free Access for Outpatients
President Ruto reiterated a key policy change under the new framework: primary healthcare is now free at the point of use.
He stressed that any Kenyan going for outpatient services at a dispensary (Level Two), health centre (Level Three), or even a sub-county hospital (Level Four), should not pay a penny.
Defending Access to the State House
Addressing critics, the President defended his decision to open the State House for citizens. He referred to those who complain that he has lowered the dignity of the residence by making it a place for “common people”.
President Ruto stated that he has not lowered the dignity of State House; rather, he has elevated the dignity of Kenyans.
He offered a theological explanation, citing Psalm 113, which says God lifts the poor from the dust and seats them with princes.
He linked this philosophy to the ‘Bottom-Up’ economic agenda, asserting that every citizen matters, regardless of financial status.
by moses sagwe
