Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has warned that the Social Health Authority (SHA) is on the brink of collapse within six months without urgent action. He cited government debts to hospitals exceeding Ksh90 billion, risking a nationwide health crisis. The government recently disbursed Ksh15.4 billion, but claims persist.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua addressed congregants at ACK Diocese of Kirinyaga in Ndia Constituency on Sunday, March 29. He stated, “I have information that SHA will collapse in 6 months and we will have a crisis in the health sector.” He added that hospitals, particularly faith-based and private ones, are owed up to Ksh90 billion and are nearly shutting down.
Gachagua advised hospitals to demand payment of these debts before providing services. “Today, as we speak, our hospitals, especially the faith-based hospitals are owed Ksh90 billion and are almost shutting down,” he said. He proposed that facilities seek upfront payments or advance monthly reimbursements to safeguard their financial stability.
The SHA faces a financial crisis with total arrears over Ksh76 billion, including those inherited from the defunct National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF). The government disbursed Ksh15.4 billion to hospitals in March, plus Ksh4.1 billion for NHIF arrears. The Ministry of Health has committed to settling claims by the 14th of each month.
Hospitals continue to demand more from the Ministry of Health, according to Gachagua. The Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader's remarks highlight ongoing challenges despite recent payments.