Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has assured staff from the defunct National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) that none will lose their jobs as the government transitions to the Social Health Authority (SHA).

Speaking on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, during a visit to SHA headquarters, Duale addressed over 900 staff members, both in-person and online. He reaffirmed that a structured redeployment framework is in place to retain existing grades and pay.

“I want to be very clear: no one will be rendered jobless,” he said. “Those not absorbed into SHA will be deployed across the public service with their full salaries.”

The shift from NHIF to SHA began on October 1, 2024, under the Taifa-Care programme. It aims to build a more people-centred health system and improve access to affordable, quality healthcare.

Merit-based hiring

Duale noted that the SHA recruitment process is governed by the Social Health Insurance Act, 2023. He emphasised that the hiring process will be merit-based, competitive and transparent.

“This is a new institution built on integrity and professionalism. Qualified former NHIF staff will be given priority, but all appointments will follow due process,” he stated.

He added that the government is committed to ensuring smooth absorption of all former NHIF workers through fair and legal procedures.

Focus on integrity

The CS also warned against the use of forged documents, noting that all credentials will be verified. “Anyone presenting fake certificates will be disqualified and face legal consequences,” he said.

He called on staff to uphold professionalism and remain citizen-focused as they embrace the changes brought by the reforms.

Duale outlined SHA’s mission, which includes enrolment, resource mobilisation, financial protection, and achieving universal health coverage.

“Transitions come with challenges, but also opportunities. Let’s focus on building a better, more equitable healthcare system,” he concluded.