Duale outlines progress on health reforms, NHIF claims and service delivery in Senate briefing
Nairobi, Kenya - - Cabinet Secretary for Health, Hon. Aden Duale, has updated the Senate on progress in health sector reforms, highlighting measures to strengthen financing, improve service delivery and enhance accountability.
Appearing before a plenary session chaired by Senate Speaker Rt. Hon. Amason Kingi, the Cabinet Secretary addressed concerns raised by Senators and provided updates on key interventions across the sector.
On health financing, CS Duale confirmed that the Government has allocated KSh 4 billion to begin settling verified claims under the defunct NHIF, focusing on claims between KSh 0 and 10 million. He said the move is intended to restore provider confidence and support a smooth transition to the Social Health Authority (SHA).
He noted that SHA is improving efficiency in claims management, with a 74 per cent settlement rate achieved and a 90-day payment timeline enforced across all levels of care.
The Cabinet Secretary also reported improvements in the availability of medicines and commodities through the Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (KEMSA), which has recorded a 92 per cent refill rate. He added that assistive hearing devices have been integrated into the national supply system, with an additional 2,000 units planned for procurement through partnerships.
On public health, the Ministry is strengthening tobacco control through enhanced awareness, enforcement and regulatory measures supported by the Solatium Compensatory Contribution.
CS Duale further highlighted the implementation of the Kenya Climate Change and Health Strategy (2024–2029) to strengthen preparedness for climate-related health risks.
In cancer care, the Government is expanding access to treatment, including plans to install an additional linear accelerator at Kenyatta National Hospital and establish regional cancer centres in Kisii, Nyeri, Meru and Kisumu.
He also cited progress in strengthening accountability through the Digital Superhighway initiative, which has led to the closure of more than 1,200 facilities linked to fraud, and sanctions against 22 doctors and 40 clinicians for malpractice.
The session was attended by Director-General for Health, Dr Patrick Amoth.