Transition to SHA still facing turbulence- top Health official

Senior Deputy Director at the Ministry of Health, Dr Sultani Matendechero, has highlighted key challenges still hindering the transition to the Social Health Authority (SHA).

Speaking Wednesday on Spice FM, Matendechero cited low registration and poor contribution rates as major setbacks.

He noted that despite the increased number of registrations, a majority have declined to channel contributions.

“The basis of SHA is that we want everybody to be contributing. Out of those who have registered a very small portion are actually paying, and we will not be able to mobilise the kind of resources that we need to finance this healthcare,” said Matendchero.

The deputy director accused some individuals of manipulating the payment system to minimise their contributions. 

He also pointed out that many healthcare facilities have yet to sign contracts with SHA.

Matendechero further alleged that some individuals, particularly those previously working under the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF), are actively trying to derail the transition.

“At the individual level some people are reluctant on their part to make SHA work especially individuals who had been working for NHIF,” he added.

“About 1000 jobs are at risk, these employees are wondering if am I going to make it to this transition or am going to be among those left out”.

Despite these challenges, Matendechero insisted that SHA remains the only viable path to achieving universal health coverage. 

He assured the public that the ministry is committed to ensuring continued healthcare services despite the funding freeze.