Public Service Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi has expressed yet again, his worry over the controversial Sh104 billion Social Health Authority (SHA) system whose contract was issued by a consortium that included Safaricom. Muturi, who spoke before the Senate Committee on Labour and Social Welfare, noted that he had previously raised concerns over the implementation of the contract.
The SHA system was meant to digitize Kenya’s health sector, but it has come under intense scrutiny after it emerged that millions of shilling collected from Kenyans who have signed up for the State’s health scheme go to a secret account controlled by three private companies. This lack of transparency and accountability brings into question the secrecy surrounding these transactions.
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However, Muturi cautioned that such high-value contracts require such due diligence on the part of the government. He reiterated that digitization of healthcare services is important, but should be done in a transparent way that serves the interests of Kenyans.
The Cabinet Secretary’s comments came as political and public pressure continued to mount over the SHA system. Legislators and oversight institutions have stepped up scrutiny, with some MPs accusing the government of failing to do due diligence in awarding the project and carrying it out.
Critics say the system was supposed to make health care more efficient but fattened the bottom line instead because of mismanagement and shady dealings. The dust-up had revived questions about how public money is used, especially in expansive projects that involve private companies.
Muturi’s testimony is the latest in growing concerns around the project. His warning highlights the importance of stricter oversight in federal contracts, particularly in essential areas like health care. With investigations continuing, Kenyans will be keen to establish whether corrective measures will be taken to protect public funds and enforce accountability in the management of the SHA system.
by Newshub