President Ruto Rebrands NHIF to Taifa Care in Push for Universal Health Coverage
President William Ruto has rebranded the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) to Taifa Care, emphasizing its pivotal role in delivering Universal Health Coverage (UHC) to all Kenyans.
In his State of the Nation Address, President Ruto expressed confidence in Taifa Care’s capacity to provide efficient and equitable healthcare services. He criticized the now-repealed National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) for primarily benefiting a limited number of salaried individuals while excluding the majority who could not afford it.
ALSO READ: Kalonzo to Ruto: Scrap Adani-SHA Deal Too
Ruto highlighted Taifa Care’s comprehensive benefits package, which he said is accessible and designed to cater to all Kenyans. Under the new model, contributors pay 2.75% of their gross income, with a minimum contribution of Ksh.300. Employers are mandated to remit payments by the 9th of every month.
“Under Taifa Care, citizens are eligible for all services upon registration. I urge every Kenyan to take the crucial step of securing dependable healthcare for themselves and their families: register now or at the earliest opportunity,” the president remarked.
ALSO READ: Ruto orders cancellation of all Adani deals in Kenya
He also noted that Taifa Care has implemented accurate costing for healthcare-related goods and services to ensure timely and effective service delivery.
The president revealed that over 15 million Kenyans are already enrolled in Taifa Care, with 60% of employers successfully transitioning to the new system.
“Once the transition from NHIF is complete and SHIF becomes fully operational, Kenya will, for the first time in 60 years of independence, have a healthcare system that guarantees dignity, peace of mind, and equitable access for every citizen,” he said.
However, the rollout, which began on October 1, 2024, has faced criticism. Members of the public and healthcare stakeholders have raised concerns that the new system excludes thousands of patients from accessing services. Critics have accused the government of rushing the implementation of a Ksh.104.8 billion program riddled with challenges, questioning why warnings about potential issues were overlooked.
The debate over Taifa Care’s effectiveness continues, with many calling for adjustments to ensure no Kenyan is left behind in the pursuit of universal healthcare.
