Governor Barasa Demands Urgent Review of SHA Annual Payment Policy

 

 Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa has issued a strong call for the immediate amendment of Section 27 of the Social Health Insurance Act (SHIA), criticizing the annual lump-sum contribution model under the Social Health Authority (SHA) as punitive and disconnected from the financial realities of ordinary Kenyans.

In a statement made during a public health forum in Kakamega, Governor Barasa emphasized that the current payment structure under SHA disproportionately affects low-income earners, especially those in the informal sector who cannot afford to make one-off annual contributions.

“Healthcare is a right, not a luxury,” the governor declared. “The current structure is locking out millions of Kenyans who need healthcare the most. SHA contributions must be affordable and flexible.”

Barasa called on Parliament to urgently review and reinstate a monthly payment option to ensure that healthcare access remains inclusive and equitable. He warned that failing to amend the legislation could undermine the very goal of universal healthcare coverage by excluding a large segment of the population due to affordability challenges.

The governor's remarks come amid growing concern from civil society groups, informal workers, and health advocates who argue that the SHA’s current contribution demands are unsustainable for ordinary citizens already grappling with high living costs and economic instability.

Governor Barasa reiterated his administration’s commitment to ensuring that every resident of Kakamega County can access healthcare without financial strain and pledged to continue engaging national leaders until fair and workable reforms are enacted.