North Eastern leaders concerned over low SHA registration rates

Leaders in the North Eastern region have voiced serious concerns over the slow registration for the Social Health Authority (SHA) program, particularly in pastoralist and Somali-majority counties.

Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale expressed concern over the low registration numbers in Garissa and other pastoralist counties, where only about 45,000 people have signed up so far.

He noted that while 23 million Kenyans have enrolled in the Social Health Authority (SHA) nationwide, including a record 71,000 registrations in a single day this week, Garissa continues to lag.

"We are concerned that Garissa and other pastoral counties are still lagging," Duale said.

"This scheme offers immense benefits and will be critical when you need healthcare services. I urge everyone to register without delay."

The Ministry of Health is set to launch an aggressive awareness and registration campaign across the region.

CS Duale pledged full support from national and county-level officials to meet the 2025 national registration target.

Wajir Governor Ahmed Abdullahi and CS Duale called on residents to urgently register for SHA,  warning that the region risks being left behind in accessing critical healthcare services.

Governor Abdullahi described SHA as a transformative initiative aimed at delivering affordable and accessible healthcare to all Kenyans.

Speaking after Eid prayers on Friday, he noted that uptake in the counties of Wajir, Garissa, and Mandera has been significantly lower than the national average.

"The SHA is a game-changer for our people," the governor emphasized.

"Yet, our communities—especially those in pastoralist regions—are lagging in registration. I urge every resident to register and secure their health and future."

The SHA, which replaces the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF), is a cornerstone of the government’s plan to achieve universal health coverage by 2025.

While national registration numbers are steadily rising, logistical barriers and limited awareness have hindered progress in arid and semi-arid counties.

Governor Abdullahi stated that the Wajir County government is collaborating closely with community health workers, local leaders, and the national government to enhance awareness and streamline the registration process.

The chairman of the Council of Governors (COG) also announced the deployment of mobile registration units to reach remote areas.

"I appeal to our chiefs, religious leaders, and youth to mobilize their communities. No one should be left behind," he added.

Residents can register at local health facilities, designated government offices, and also through SHA’s online platform.