The Kenyan government has raised the Social Health Authority's oncology treatment package from Ksh550,000 to Ksh800,000 per patient. Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo announced the increase on March 16, 2026, amid public outcry over treatment costs. The package covers diagnosis, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, brachytherapy, surgical interventions, palliative care, consumables, and specialised imaging like PET/CT scans and MRIs at contracted facilities.
Cancer patients across Kenya stand to benefit from the government's decision to increase the Social Health Authority (SHA) oncology package by Ksh250,000, from Ksh550,000 to Ksh800,000 per patient. Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo made the announcement on March 16, 2026, noting it addresses financial strains on families seeking cancer treatment. SHA stated, “The Government remains committed to expanding access to cancer care across the country through both progressive policy and strategic health infrastructure.” It added, “In line with this commitment, SHA has enhanced the oncology benefits package from Ksh550,000 to Ksh800,000 per patient, significantly easing the financial burden of treatment for many Kenyan families.” The package includes diagnosis, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, brachytherapy, surgical interventions, palliative care, consumables, and specialised imaging such as PET/CT scans and MRIs at contracted facilities. The government also plans more specialised cancer facilities, particularly in marginalised areas. The Kisii Cancer Centre is 30 per cent complete and will serve the South Nyanza region. “The project is currently at about 30 per cent completion, with works progressing on the third floor, expected to run through mid-April. Construction of the Chemotherapy Centre block is scheduled to commence next week,” Omollo stated. This follows SHA CEO Mercy Mwangangi's announcement of Ksh11.1 billion disbursed for approved SHIF claims from March 13 to 19. SHA has collected Ksh142.8 billion in contributions, transitioned 29.8 million Kenyans to the new health insurance framework, and paid out Ksh109 billion in claims to facilities.