Kenya has introduced a new health insurance requirement for all foreign visitors entering the country. Under the recent government directive, travelers must possess a health insurance policy with a minimum coverage of Ksh6.4 million (approximately US$50,000).
The mandatory insurance must include specific minimum benefits:
- Ksh3.2 million (US$25,000) for emergency medical transportation
- Ksh2.5 million (US$20,000) for medical expenses
- Ksh644,823 (US$5,000) for repatriation of mortal remains
- Ksh128,964 (US$1,000) for mental health treatment
- Ksh38,689 (US$300) for prescribed medicines
This policy framework, outlined in Gazette Notice No. 11492 and issued by Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale, is part of the implementation of the Social Health Insurance Act, 2023, and its 2024 regulations. The largest allocation is for emergency medical transport, ensuring travelers can be evacuated or transferred swiftly if urgent medical care is needed.
Only insurance policies approved and licensed under Kenya’s Insurance Act will qualify under these rules. The guidelines were established under Section 26(6) of the Social Health Insurance Act, 2023, and Regulation 70(2)(b) of the Social Health Insurance Regulations, 2024.
The new health insurance mandate has sparked political debate. Former Nominated Senator Gloria Orwoba has supported the measure but urged Kenya to enforce reciprocal requirements on foreign visitors, similar to the financial scrutiny Kenyans face when traveling abroad. She proposed that visitors could be required to submit financial documents, such as six months of bank statements, to prove their ability to fund their stay.
