President Ruto highlights SHA’s role in affordable healthcare

KENYA – President William Ruto has reaffirmed the Social Health Authority’s (SHA) commitment to providing fair and affordable healthcare to all Kenyans.

He emphasized the government’s vision to deliver Universal Health Coverage (UHC), calling on citizens to sign up in large numbers and ignore critics of the new health care reforms.

Speaking at Mkongani Sub-County Hospital in Kwale County, where he launched a new Theatre Block and laid the foundation for an X-Ray Unit, the President said the improvements will significantly increase access to quality healthcare in the area.

“The Social Health Authority is the vehicle that will help every Kenyan access quality, affordable health services,” said Ruto.

He also pledged KSh 30 million to help further upgrade the hospital, underlining the national government’s cooperation with county governments to boost healthcare delivery.

The upgrades will transform Mkongani Hospital from Level III to Level IV, meaning locals will no longer have to travel long distances for specialized services.

According to Kwale Governor Fatuma Achani, the upgraded facility will now be able to handle major surgeries like caesarean sections, hernia repairs, and appendectomies.

This is expected to cut referrals to other hospitals, such as Kwale County Hospital, which is located 40 kilometers away.

The governor stated that the hospital now serves over 10,000 residents across eight communities, including Mkongani A, Mkongani B, Umurira, and Goyo.

More than 1,500 pregnant women will benefit from monthly consultations with specialists, helping to reduce maternal health risks through early intervention.

“This is a game-changer for the women of Kwale,” Governor Achani said. “Improving these facilities also boosts local businesses and attracts healthcare professionals, creating wider socioeconomic benefits.”

Governor Achani also shared her administration’s achievements since devolution, highlighting that Kwale, Lungalunga, Samburu, and Kinango hospitals have all been upgraded to Level 4.

Furthermore, Msambweni Hospital has become a referral facility with services including dialysis, intensive care, antenatal care, and tuberculosis diagnostics.

To meet rising demand, the county has built 178 new dispensaries, hired 1,800 health workers, and deployed over 1,600 community health promoters.

“People no longer need to travel far for medical attention. Healthcare is now within reach,” she said.

Governor Achani urged residents to fully use the upgraded hospitals to justify the heavy investments in infrastructure and modern equipment.