Ruto Raises Cancer Treatment Cover to KSh 800,000 Under New SHA Plan

 

By Sheila Keter 

President William Ruto has announced a significant boost to cancer care financing in Kenya, increasing the medical coverage package under the Social Health Authority (SHA) from KSh 550,000 to KSh 800,000. The enhanced benefit will take effect on December 1, 2025.

Speaking during the announcement, the President said the expanded cover is intended to ease the heavy financial burden borne by thousands of families battling cancer. He noted that despite growing awareness, many Kenyans still struggle to access timely diagnosis and treatment, with cost remaining a major barrier.

Ruto said the increment is part of the government’s broader agenda to actualize Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and ensure no Kenyan is pushed into poverty due to medical expenses. He emphasized that the strengthened SHA benefit will increase access to specialized cancer treatment, including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgery, and palliative care.

According to the Head of State, more than 10,000 health facilities across the country have already been accredited to provide services under SHA. He added that the government has stepped up the supply of essential medicines and medical equipment to ensure quality care without delays.

The President urged all Kenyans to register for the Social Health Authority so they can benefit from the expanded coverage. He encouraged families affected by cancer to take advantage of the enhanced package, saying it would improve treatment outcomes and help reduce the economic strain associated with long-term care.

The announcement marks one of the government’s most substantial interventions in recent years aimed at curbing the rising cancer burden and strengthening Kenya’s healthcare system.