GOVERNMENT ALLOCATING FUNDS TO ENSURE UNIVERSAL ACCESS TO MEDICATION

Public Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni has assured Kenyans that the government is actively working to allocate sufficient funds to ensure that every citizen can access essential medication.
Speaking during a stakeholder engagement forum, PS Muthoni highlighted the role of the recently launched Social Health Authority (SHA) in transforming healthcare access across the country. The SHA, which came into effect in October 2024, oversees three critical funds: the Primary Health Care Fund, the Social Health Insurance Fund, and the Emergency, Chronic and Critical Illness Fund.
“These funds are structured to guarantee that no Kenyan is left behind when it comes to accessing medicines and healthcare services,” said Muthoni. “Our goal is to ensure drugs are not just available at health facilities but are also distributed equitably to every community.”
She noted that the government is committed to enhancing accountability in the pharmaceutical supply chain and urged county governments, faith-based organizations, and other healthcare stakeholders to support the effort.
The PS further announced that the Ministry of Health is also pushing for the Quality of Care Bill, which will establish clear legal frameworks to regulate drug distribution, protect patient safety, and strengthen inspection and redress mechanisms.
Muthoni reiterated the government’s commitment to Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and urged local leaders to sensitize citizens about the importance of enrolling in the new health scheme under the SHA.
“We are investing in systems that prioritize the health of our people. Everyone—regardless of their location or income—must have access to the medication they need,” she said.
The Ministry has also defended the introduction of annual SHA contributions, insisting the model is vital to sustai