Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has reinforced the government’s commitment to protecting public resources, declaring a zero-tolerance stance on corruption within the Social Health Insurance (SHA) scheme.

The announcement comes as part of a broader crackdown to ensure SHA funds reach legitimate healthcare providers and deliver value to over 25 million registered Kenyans.

“The Social Health Authority manages the contributions of hard-working Kenyans. These funds are intended to ensure quality, affordable, and dignified healthcare for all. Not to line the pockets of fraudsters. We will not tolerate any individual or institution attempting to exploit or syphon what belongs to the people,” Duale said in a post on X dated August 26, 2025.

Facilities suspended

The government announced the suspension of 45 health facilities across the country.

The action, effective immediately under Section 48(6) of the Social Health Insurance Act, 2023, is detailed in Kenya Gazette notice Vol. CXXVII—No. 180 and signed by SHA Chief Executive Officer Mercy Mwangangi.

The suspended facilities include Aasif Medical and Health Service Limited in Mandera, Equity Afia-Homa Bay, and Novic Medical Centre in Nairobi.

These institutions will not receive SHA reimbursements during their suspension, following the earlier suspension of 40 facilities on August 8. Duale emphasised that the crackdown responds to public outrage over ghost hospitals and fraudulent claims syphoning funds intended for healthcare delivery.

This measure complements the closure of 1,400 private hospitals since July 2025 for malpractice and operational irregularities, marking a historic step in Kenya’s healthcare reforms.

Accountability and public trust

Duale’s firm action comes amid growing calls for transparency and accountability from civil society, health workers, and the public. “The government remains firm and unyielding in protecting the integrity of the health system,” Duale said, signalling a turning point aimed at safeguarding SHA resources.

While the suspensions address immediate concerns, public demand for prosecution and further investigation persists. Experts note that robust enforcement, combined with preventive reforms, is critical to restore confidence in the SHA scheme.

As Kenya navigates this reform process, Duale’s leadership underscores the government’s resolve to ensure healthcare resources serve their intended purpose—providing quality, affordable, and dignified services to Kenyans rather than enriching fraudsters.