The Social Health Authority (SHA) has launched a strategic partnership with the Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) to strengthen health, wellness, and environmental initiatives through sports.
The collaboration designates SHA as the official health partner for Kenya’s national rugby teams, enrolling all registered players under its comprehensive health cover.
Athletes will now have access to services such as surgeries, injury treatment, physiotherapy, and rehabilitation, reducing the financial strain of medical care.
Medical Services Principal Secretary Dr Ouma Oluga highlighted the significance of the partnership, noting that “Some players have received critical support through SHA, preventing careers from being cut short by lack of affordable healthcare.”
The joint initiative will be formally launched at the Safari 7s Tournament from October 10–12, 2025, at Nyayo Stadium. During the tournament, SHA will provide ambulances, emergency medical services, and organize health awareness activities under the theme “Play Well, Live Well.”
Beyond the tournament, the two organizations will continue their cooperation through health campaigns, community outreach, and wellness programs throughout the 2025 rugby season. To demonstrate their commitment to environmental care, SHA and KRU conducted a tree-planting exercise ahead of Mazingira Day on October 10.
Dr Oluga described the collaboration as a long-term investment in both athlete welfare and community health, reflecting SHA’s commitment to advancing Universal Health Coverage (UHC) across Kenya.
In another major development, mental health services have now been incorporated into the national insurance benefits package under the Taifa Care Model and SHA.
Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale, speaking at the opening of the 2nd National Mental Health Conference in Nairobi, said the integration underscores Kenya’s dedication to equitable healthcare access.
“For the first time, mental health services are now part of the national insurance benefits package, ensuring that no Kenyan has to choose between caring for their mind and feeding their family. This is the true meaning of ‘Afya Bora kwa Wakenya Wote,’ quality healthcare for every Kenyan without financial hardship,” Duale said.
He added that the Ministry of Health is reshaping how mental health is understood, funded, and delivered, guided by the Mental Health Act, 2023, and the Kenya Mental Health Policy, which recognize mental health as a fundamental human right.