Duale warns SHA against fraud and colluding with rogue health facilities
By Faith Lagat, March 13, 2026Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has issued a stern warning to the Social Health Authority (SHA) and its staff against fraud, collusion with rogue healthcare facilities, and any misuse of public funds.
The message was delivered during an onboarding event for newly recruited officers at SHA headquarters on March 13, 2026, as announced by the Ministry of Health.
He described SHA as the financial backbone of Kenya’s healthcare reforms, essential for advancing Universal Health Coverage (UHC) under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA).
The CS urged recruits to uphold integrity, transparency, and accountability in managing public resources.
“Fraud, collusion with rogue healthcare facilities, and misuse of funds will not be tolerated,” Duale declared in a statement shared by the Ministry of Health, emphasising that any individual found culpable would face the full force of the law.
The warning comes amid ongoing concerns over integrity in the sector following previous fraudulent claims that the system has blocked, using advanced detection measures.
Achievements and priorities for new officers
Despite operating with limited staff in recent months, SHA has recorded notable milestones, enrolling 29.8 million Kenyans, collecting Ksh142.8 billion in premiums, and disbursing Ksh109 billion in claims to healthcare providers.
“Despite operating with limited staff in recent months, SHA has collected Ksh 142.8 billion, transitioned 29.8 million Kenyans and paid Ksh 109 billion in claims to healthcare facilities. With the full workforce now in place, the Authority is expected to further strengthen service delivery,” read the X post in part.
With the new officers now deploying to departments and counties, Duale challenged them to focus on scaling up revenue collection, ensuring full employer onboarding, strengthening claims management, and improving administrative efficiency. He stressed that these priorities aim to channel more resources directly to healthcare services and enhance sustainability.
The onboarding event also included an inspection of the ongoing construction of the National Ambulance Dispatch Centre at SHA headquarters, reflecting the government’s commitment to strengthening emergency care and referral systems.
The Director-General joined him, along with Health Patrick Amoth, SHA CEO Mercy Mwangangi, and Chairperson Abdi Mohamed. Duale welcomed the new officers as a critical boost to the Authority’s capacity.
Safeguarding public funds and UHC goals
Duale’s remarks highlight broader efforts to safeguard SHA since its launch in October 2024, which replaced the NHIF. The Authority has faced scrutiny over potential vulnerabilities.
This comes days after President William Ruto dismissed concerns over the asserted loss of Ksh50 billion linked to the Social Health Authority (SHA), saying the government is making record payments to hospitals through the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF).
Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah criticised the president, arguing that the Office of the Auditor-General is an independent constitutional body tasked with checking the use of public resources and reporting to Parliament and the public.
By reinforcing anti-fraud vigilance, the Ministry seeks to build public trust and ensure the scheme delivers on its promise of accessible, quality care for all.