The Social Health Authority (SHA) has issued a directive for non-salaried households and informal sector workers to register for the government health insurance programme under the Social Health Insurance Act, 2023.

The authority warned that delaying contributions will incur a 2% penalty on the outstanding amount until payment is made. The registration requirement covers a broad range of residents, including farmers, traders, boda boda riders, casual and domestic workers, and self-employed individuals.

Registration Process and Requirements

  • Individuals can register by dialing *147#, visiting the SHA website, or accessing a branch office or Huduma Centre.
  • Members must create an account using their National ID and a registered phone number, then set a confidential PIN.
  • They are required to provide accurate details on income, household composition, and assets to enable means testing.
  • Eligible dependants such as spouses and children can be added during registration.

Contribution and Payment Options

SHA assesses contributions based on the means-testing data and notifies members of their monthly or annual payment amounts. Members may pay the full annual sum or opt for the Lipa Pole Pole instalment plan, which requires an upfront payment equivalent to four months of contributions before coverage is activated.

Payments are made via Paybill number 200222 using the National ID as the account number.

Penalties and Access to Healthcare

Late payments attract a 2% penalty on the unpaid balance for the duration of the delay. All outstanding contributions and penalties must be settled to regain access to healthcare services under the fund.

Once registered and paid, members can access healthcare at any SHA-accredited facility nationwide by presenting their National ID.

Government's Push for Inclusive Health Coverage

This initiative forms part of the government's strategy to expand health insurance coverage, especially targeting informal sector workers who are not covered through payroll deductions. SHA CEO Mercy Mwangangi emphasized the right of every Kenyan to affordable, quality healthcare and urged prompt registration and honest income disclosure.