President Ruto launches Taifa Care Premiums for 1.5M indigent kenyans, hails CHPs as health pillars

With 26.4M Kenyans already enrolled, the ambitious health insurance plan targets 55M by end of 2027

President William Ruto has today launched a landmark phase of the Taifa Care health insurance program, under which the government will begin paying insurance premiums for 1.5 million vulnerable Kenyans.

Terming the initiative “historic and momentous,” President Ruto said this marks a significant step toward universal health coverage for all citizens.

“One step at a time, Taifa Care, Kenya’s boldest health insurance program ever, is firming up,” he stated.

With 26.4 million citizens already enrolled, the government has set bold targets—30 million by December, 45 million by 2026, and 55 million by the end of 2027.

Focus is now shifting to strengthening healthcare infrastructure to support the growing numbers. This includes investing in medical equipment, human resources for health, and ensuring a steady supply of essential drugs and medical commodities in health facilities across the country.

The Community Health Promoters (CHPs) have emerged as key drivers of the program’s success. They are facilitating enrolment, conducting door-to-door visits, and promoting healthy living practices at the grassroots.

President Ruto held a meeting with 6,500 CHPs and other grassroots health promoters, where he expressed gratitude for their selfless dedication to the country’s wellbeing.

“I thank them for their service and urge them to continue being part of the transformation of Kenya’s health sector,” said the Head of State.

He was joined at the event by Senate Deputy Speaker and Meru Senator Kathuri Murungi, along with MPs Joshua Mwalyo (Masinga) and John Bwire (Taveta).