The Transition to SHIF: What You Need to Know About NHIF Contributions.
As Kenya prepares to launch the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) on October 1, 2024, significant questions arise regarding the fate of contributions made to the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF). The transition marks the end of NHIF’s 58-year tenure, prompting scrutiny and concerns from the public about the new scheme’s implementation and benefits.
The Ministry of Health (MoH) has faced criticism for the unclear communication surrounding this transition. Many Kenyans are apprehensive about how their contributions will be handled under the new management of the Social Health Authority (SHA). Reports indicate that the benefits provided under SHIF may not match the high contributions expected from members, adding to public discontent.
A primary concern for many is the status of their existing NHIF funds. Health Principal Secretary (PS) Harry Kimtai addressed these worries, reassuring the public in an interview with *The Standard* that all contributions will be transferred to the new scheme. “No one needs to worry about losing even a single shilling with these changes. Every contribution will be accounted for and carried forward to SHA,” he stated. This reassurance aims to alleviate fears about potential losses during the transition.
However, discontent among Kenyans is palpable. Some citizens disrupted virtual training sessions for public health officials, voicing their frustrations about the registration process for SHIF. One participant was even recorded singing the activism anthem “Sitasimama maovu ya kitawala” (I will not stand the evils of governance), highlighting the growing unrest surrounding the rollout.
Social media has become a platform for Kenyans to express their disappointment with the registration process, revealing various challenges faced during sign-ups. Meanwhile, the MoH has not disclosed how many Kenyans have registered for the new scheme, and a meeting scheduled to provide updates on the transition was abruptly canceled, raising further concerns about the rollout’s readiness.
In terms of employment, NHIF management has assured staff that no jobs will be lost in the transition. NHIF CEO Elijah Wachira confirmed, “No employee will be fired; no employee will lose their job. After SHA finalizes its human resources framework, they will recruit those they need.” Existing employment contracts with NHIF will automatically transfer to SHA, ensuring continuity for staff.
As of the last update, NHIF reported approximately 1.9 million registrations. Employers are encouraged to register their employees before the October 1 deadline, utilizing the SHA employer portal at [sha.go.ke](https://sha.go.ke/) to manage contributions. Each employer must create and verify their account before entering employee details. Contributions will amount to 2.75% of an employee’s monthly pay, which will be remitted to SHIF.
In conclusion, as the October deadline approaches, it is crucial for Kenyans to stay informed about the transition to SHIF and how it affects their health insurance contributions. The government’s commitment to ensuring a smooth transfer of funds and clarity in the benefits provided will be vital in rebuilding public trust during this significant change in the healthcare system.
Article By Suzy Nyongesa.
