Govt Responds to Gachagua's Claims that SHA is Collapsing

The government, through the Ministry of Health, has pushed back against claims by former Deputy President (DP) Rigathi Gachagua that the Social Health Authority (SHA) is on the verge of collapse, insisting that the national health scheme remains stable and fully operational.

Responding to Gachagua’s warning, Health Cabinet Secretary (CS) Aden Duale dismissed the claims, citing key statistics to demonstrate SHA’s performance and sustainability.

“As of today, over 30 million Kenyans have registered for the Social Health Authority (SHA),” Duale said.

He further revealed that the government has already disbursed significant funds to healthcare providers across the country.

“We have paid Ksh 121 billion across various facilities in the country, including Ksh 19 billion paid up freely by President William Ruto for Primary Health Care (PHC),” he added.

Strong Revenue Collection Highlighted

Duale also pointed to the revenue collected since the rollout of SHA as proof that the system is financially stable.

“We have collected Ksh 156 billion since SHA began 19 months ago,” he stated.

According to the CS, these figures reflect a growing and sustainable health financing model aimed at achieving universal healthcare.

“These numbers show a system that is working, not one that is collapsing,” Duale said.

Also Read: Court Declares 2024 SHA Rollout Unconstitutional, Orders Reforms Within 90 Days

Govt Calls for Public Confidence

The government maintained that despite challenges associated with transitioning to the new system, SHA is functioning and continues to expand its reach.

Officials urged Kenyans not to panic over claims of a looming collapse, emphasizing that reforms and improvements are ongoing to enhance efficiency and accountability.

Also Read: Kalonzo Speaks on Whether 2027 Will Be His Final Presidential Bid

Gachagua Raises Alarm

Gachagua, while speaking during a church service at ACK Diocese of Kirinyaga on March 29, 2026, warned that SHA could collapse within six months, citing delayed payments to hospitals and alleging that healthcare providers are owed up to Ksh 90 billion.

“We have a big challenge with our hospitals. I have information that SHA will collapse in another six months, and there will be a major crisis of unknown magnitude in the health sector,” Gachagua warned.

He cautioned that such financial strain could trigger a nationwide health crisis if not urgently addressed.

Follow our WhatsApp channel for instant news updates