Kakamega Senator Bonnie Khalwale has accused the Social Health Authority (SHA) of causing severe financial strain on hospitals and residents in the county.

Speaking candidly, Khalwale revealed that the implementation of SHA has left healthcare facilities struggling to operate and residents confused about their health coverage.

“Mweshimiwa President. Wewe uliambia mimi nikaleta wajumbe wote wa Kakamega Statehouse, tuingize watu wetu kwa SHA. Mimi Mr President nikaita Chiefs na Assistant Chiefs wote wa Kakamega, 406. Nikawaweka kwa mboma yangu Malinya, nikawaambia tuamasishe watu watu waingie kwa SHA/SHIF. Watu wetu wameingia SHA/SHIF lakini mmewaingiza kwa shima ambayo hawajui watatoka namna gani,” Khalwale stated.

The senator explained that despite his efforts to ensure proper registration and participation, SHA’s mismanagement has created uncertainty. According to Khalwale, the agency’s underpayment practices have pushed hospitals to the brink.

“Mr President, SHA imesababisha hospitali yetu yenye ilianzishwa over 91 years ago, in 1932, imefunga. SHA iliambia daktari wa St. Marys, tibu watu tutakulipa akatibu watu ikafika gharama ya shillingi 117 million. SHA ikalipa hospitali 9 million peke yake. Daktari ameshindwa, amefunga hospitali. Waizi wako watatu,” he added.

SHA faces mismanagement, fraud

Khalwale’s remarks reflect wider concerns surrounding SHA, which has been heavily criticised for mismanagement and corruption. President William Ruto has on Saturday, August 30, 2025, announced a sweeping crackdown on health facilities found guilty of defrauding the Social Health Authority (SHA), revealing that over 1,000 hospitals have had their licences revoked. He added that offenders would face both fines and prosecution.

Reports show that SHA’s rollout has been fraught with challenges, including questionable procurement processes, lack of government ownership of the system, and oversight by private entities. The Auditor-General’s March 2025 report highlighted chaotic implementation, poor governance, and potential loss of public funds, urging Parliament to investigate SHA’s operations.

Khalwale emphasised that the situation is unsustainable and demanded immediate corrective action. He warned that unless SHA payments are properly managed, hospitals and communities across Kakamega will continue to bear the burden.