The Social Health Authority (SHA) has introduced biometric fingerprint verification for registered child dependants aged between seven and 17 years as part of efforts to strengthen beneficiary identification and curb fraud in the country’s public health insurance system.

In a public notice issued on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, SHA announced that fingerprints for children within the age bracket will be captured at SHA-contracted healthcare facilities whenever they visit for treatment.

According to the authority, the biometric data will be used solely to verify the identity of child beneficiaries and ensure that healthcare services are provided to the rightful registered dependants.

“SHA has introduced fingerprint identification for registered child dependants aged 7 to 17 years,” the notice reads.

“The child’s fingerprint will be captured at a SHA-contracted healthcare provider when the child visits for treatment. It will be used to identify the child and confirm that the correct beneficiary is receiving care.”

Parents’ consent required

SHA clarified that parents or legal guardians must first give consent before a child’s fingerprint can be captured.

The authority said the measure is intended to improve the integrity of beneficiary verification while safeguarding children’s rights during the registration process.

Where fingerprint verification cannot be completed due to technical or other reasons, healthcare facilities will use alternative methods to verify beneficiaries.

“Where fingerprint verification is not possible, the facility may use the contributor’s identification number and a one-time password (OTP),” SHA said.

Data protection assurances

The authority sought to allay concerns over the collection of children’s biometric data, assuring members of the public that all information will be handled in accordance with Kenya’s data protection laws.

SHA said the fingerprint records will be managed securely under the provisions of the Data Protection Act, 2019, adding that the exercise is anchored in existing health insurance legislation.

According to the notice, the biometric verification process is supported by the Social Health Insurance Act, 2023, as well as Regulation 38 of the Social Health Insurance Regulations, 2024.

“The child’s information will be handled securely in line with the Data Protection Act, 2019. This process is supported by the Social Health Insurance Act, 2023 and Regulation 38 of the Social Health Insurance Regulations, 2024,” the authority stated.

Part of wider reforms

The introduction of biometric verification marks another step in the ongoing implementation of the Social Health Authority, which replaced the now-defunct National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) as part of the government’s healthcare reforms.

Since becoming operational, SHA has been rolling out new digital systems aimed at improving beneficiary registration, reducing fraud, enhancing accountability, and ensuring that only eligible members access benefits under the Social Health Insurance Fund.

The authority has also been encouraging Kenyans to register their dependants and update their personal information to facilitate seamless access to healthcare services.