Murang’a senator Joe Nyutu urges govt to increase funding for SHA
By Ndiritu Wanjiru, April 27, 2026Senator Joe Nyutu of Murang’a County has urged the government to provide more financial support to the Social Health Authority (SHA) amid shortfalls in funding that could limit access to healthcare for low-income earners.
Nyutu, speaking in an interview with a local TV station on Monday, April 27, 2026, said the government had initially vowed to subsidise members of the public who are unable to pay monthly premiums. But, he said, it is not clear how much funding has been allocated to the scheme.
The senator highlighted recent reports that up to KSh130 billion may be needed to cover the number of Kenyans who are already registered with SHA. He said this amount underscores the importance of additional government funding to sustain the health programme.
“The government was going to inject cash, especially to cater to the members of our society who could not afford the monthly contributions.
“It is not very clear how much money the government is injecting into the Social Health Authority (SHA), and as you have lately observed, Ksh130 billion is to cover the number of Kenyans who have registered with SHA. The government should inject more money to cater to Kenyans under the programme,” Nyutu said.
Nyutu cautioned that without adequate funding, many poor families may be unable to access critical health care services, undermining the aim of universal health coverage. He recommended that the government provide more support through budgetary allocations to cushion vulnerable households and ensure equitable access to health care.
Nyutu calls for government action
However, the Murang’a lawmaker lambasted the government for arguing that SHA is working, despite Kenyans’ complaints. He urged the government to accept that the system has a problem and act accordingly.
The lawmaker further stressed the importance of transparency in the administration and financing of the scheme, noting that effective communication and accountability will be essential to win back public confidence. According to the senator, early intervention will not only improve the scheme but also protect the nation’s health care system.