President William Ruto has announced a major milestone in Kenya’s healthcare sector, revealing that the number of citizens covered by health insurance has grown from 7 million to over 26 million.
Speaking on Sunday, October 12, 2025, during celebrations marking the 70th anniversary of the Africa Inland Church (AIC), the President said the expansion reflects the government’s ongoing success in reforming the country’s healthcare system.
“Mambo za matibabu yanazidi kuwa bora zaidi. Tulikuwa na Wakenya milioni saba katika bima ya afya, sasa tumefikisha milioni ishirini na sita laki saba,” Ruto said, attributing the progress to God’s grace and collective national effort.
Healthcare Transformation Through SHIF
The achievement comes amid the government’s rollout of the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) — a flagship reform aimed at making healthcare more accessible, equitable, and affordable for all Kenyans. SHIF replaces the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) and is designed to ensure every citizen, regardless of income, can receive essential medical care.
Despite the progress, Ruto acknowledged the sector’s ongoing challenges, including underfunded hospitals, frequent doctors’ strikes, delayed medical supplies, and overcrowded facilities. He emphasized that the new system seeks to address these long-standing gaps through sustainable funding and stronger management.
Faith and Vision for a Better Kenya
President Ruto linked Kenya’s recent progress in healthcare, infrastructure, and development to faith and unity of purpose.
“Kwa neema ya Mungu, yale mipango tumekuwa nayo miaka mingi, ya ujenzi, ya housing, ya hostels, tunaona Mungu ametufungulia njia,” he said.
Looking ahead, Ruto expressed confidence in Kenya’s potential to achieve full transformation within the next three decades.
“Miaka thelathini ijayo, maombi yetu kwa Mungu ni Kenya itoke kutoka third world to first class,” he added.
As Kenya continues implementing its Universal Health Coverage (UHC) agenda, the government’s focus remains on ensuring that all citizens — from rural communities to urban centers — can access quality, affordable healthcare.
