Kiambu Town Member of Parliament Machua Waithaka has launched a Social Health Authority (SHA) registration drive targeting vulnerable residents, with over 500 beneficiaries set to receive full medical coverage.
The initiative, unveiled during an event within the constituency, focuses on senior citizens and Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) drawn from all four wards in Kiambu Town. The MP said the programme is aimed at easing the financial burden on vulnerable households while improving access to healthcare services.
According to Waithaka, the selected beneficiaries will have their annual SHA premiums fully paid through the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF), effectively enrolling them into the national health scheme without requiring out-of-pocket contributions.
“This initiative is part of our deliberate effort to ensure that no vulnerable person is left behind when it comes to accessing healthcare,” the MP said, noting that many families continue to struggle with medical expenses.
The registration drive comes at a time when the government is pushing for wider adoption of the Social Health Authority programme as part of the broader universal healthcare agenda. By targeting senior citizens and persons living with disabilities, the programme seeks to prioritise groups that are often at higher risk of health challenges but may lack stable income to meet medical costs.
Residents who attended the launch welcomed the initiative, saying it will significantly reduce the strain of hospital bills and improve their ability to seek timely medical attention. For many, the move is expected to provide relief, especially amid rising living costs.
Waithaka emphasised that healthcare access remains a key pillar of his development agenda, adding that the constituency will continue to roll out programmes that directly impact the wellbeing of residents. He also hinted at the possibility of expanding the programme in future to include more beneficiaries.
The MP noted that collaboration with local leaders and community representatives played a crucial role in identifying deserving beneficiaries across the wards. This, he said, ensured fairness and transparency in the selection process.
The SHA registration drive marks a significant step towards strengthening social protection systems at the grassroots level. It also aligns with national efforts to build a more inclusive healthcare system that caters to all Kenyans, regardless of their economic status.
As the rollout continues, attention will now shift to how effectively the beneficiaries utilise the cover and whether similar initiatives can be scaled up to reach more vulnerable groups across the country.
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