Government Launches Nationwide SHA Registration Drive for Inmates
The government has launched a nationwide registration drive for inmates under the Social Health Authority (SHA) scheme. The initiative, which also includes National Identification registration, was officially flagged off at Lang’ata Women Prison in Nairobi.
The drive is set to cover all correctional facilities across the country, including prisons and probation centres, under the guiding principle of “leaving no one behind.”
The government will fully cover the SHA premiums for inmates through the State Department of Correctional Services.
The launch event was graced by several high-ranking government officials including Principal Secretaries Dr Ouma Oluga (Medical Services), Dr Salome Beacco (Correctional Services), Belio Kipsang (Immigration and Citizen Services), and Dr Aurelia Chepkirui Rono (Parliamentary Affairs). Also in attendance were Commissioner General of Prisons Patrick Mwiti Aranduh and Acting SHA CEO Robert Ingasira.
Dr Beacco emphasized the importance of inclusivity in the rollout of health services, saying, “Sometimes we resist change because we do not understand it. It is important that every Kenyan registers for SHA so that no one is left behind.” She noted that over 8,000 inmates have already been registered and the programme is now being scaled up.
Dr Oluga reaffirmed the government’s commitment to Universal Health Coverage, stating that the SHA initiative is designed to cater to every citizen, including those in correctional institutions and other vulnerable groups.
Mr Kipsang reiterated the government’s dedication to inclusive service delivery, adding that the SHA registration drive in prisons is a clear indication that no one will be excluded from essential services.
The SHA drive for inmates is expected to significantly boost access to healthcare for one of the most underserved populations in the country.
