A fresh political and economic dispute has emerged after former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua alleged that the Social Health Authority (SHA) is burdened with a KSh98 billion debt—claims that have been firmly dismissed by Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale as inaccurate and misleading.
Speaking during recent political engagements, Gachagua questioned the financial stability of the new health financing system, suggesting that SHA was operating under heavy debt pressure that could affect service delivery. His remarks quickly sparked debate online and in political circles, with critics and supporters weighing in on the state of the new healthcare model.
However, CS Duale moved swiftly to reject the allegations, insisting that the figures being circulated are not supported by official data. According to him, SHA is not running a deficit but instead has accumulated surplus funds estimated at over KSh30 billion, which continue to support ongoing payments to health facilities across the country.
Duale maintained that the government has been consistent in clearing verified claims and strengthening accountability within the health financing system. He added that reforms introduced under the Social Health Authority are designed to eliminate inefficiencies that previously affected the defunct NHIF structure.
The dispute comes at a time when the transition to SHA remains a major national talking point, with stakeholders including hospitals, insurers, and patients closely watching how the system performs. While the government insists that the new model is sustainable and improving access to healthcare, critics argue that communication gaps and conflicting figures are fueling public confusion.
Recent months have seen repeated exchanges between political leaders over SHA’s performance, reflecting broader tensions around healthcare reforms and public trust in government data.
As the debate continues, attention is now focused on whether independent audits and clearer reporting will settle the disagreement and provide Kenyans with a transparent picture of the country’s health financing position.