Amos Khaemba, a journalist at TUKO.co.ke, brings over four years of experience covering politics and current affairs in Kenya.

- President William Ruto has launched a new payment system for the Social Health Authority (SHA).

During his 62nd Madaraka Day speech at the Raila Odinga Stadium, Ruto launched the Lipa Pole Pole initiative aimed at easing SHA insurance contributions for Kenyans in the informal sector.

Under the new arrangement, citizens can now pay their annual premiums in instalments or via a more flexible payment plan.

"To address persistent challenges such as irregular premium contributions among informal sector workers, we are introducing an innovative and inclusive payment solution called LIPA SHA POLE POLE. This initiative enables Kenyans to remit their annual SHA contributions through flexible, manageable instalments, whether monthly, weekly, or even daily, based on their financial ability," Ruto announced.

According to the president, the new payment method will ensure families continue to access healthcare services while also promoting SHA sustainability.

"It ensures families maintain continuous health coverage without financial strain, while simultaneously promoting the sustainability of the health insurance fund. LIPA SHA POLE POLE has been made possible through a strategic partnership between the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Cooperatives and MSMEs, Mobile Network Operators, and Financial Institutions, through the Hustler Fund.

The system is simple and accessible; citizens can dial *147# and follow the prompts to enrol and begin their contributions immediately," the president announced.

The head of state urged Kenyans to take charge of their health needs by enrolling under the SHA, arguing that the new healthcare system will make access to medical care cheap.

"I urge every Kenyan to take charge of their health by enrolling with SHA, so that together we can end the heartbreaking cycle where families are forced to auction their livestock, sell their land, or part with their life’s possessions just to afford medical care. Let us unite to build a healthcare system rooted in dignity, equality, and compassion; a system where access to care is a right, not a privilege for a few," Ruto added.

In other news, Kenyans registered under the Social Health Authority (SHA) could soon access cost-effective and financially sustainable services.

The government has established a Benefits Package and Tariffs Advisory Panel and Secretariat to review Social Health Authority (SHA) benefits.

Speaking during the inauguration of the panel in Nairobi on Monday, May 26, Health Cabinet Secretary (CS) Aden Duale revealed that the panel will offer expert advice to the ministry on sustainable benefits to SHA members.

Source: TUKO.co.ke