PS Oluga faces SHA challenges as he takes over office

Transition from the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) to the new Social Health Authority (SHA) remains top challenge for Dr Ouma Oluga, the newly appointed Principal Secretary for the State Department for Medical Services. 

Dr Oluga who on Thursday took over from Harry Kimtai said overseeing the operationalisation of the newly established SHA, remains top task.

SHA is expected to be a key driver in delivering  Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and reshaping how Kenyans access and pay for healthcare.

Dr Oluga's appointment comes at a pivotal moment for health financing, digitisation and the ambitious goal of achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC).

Speaking on Thursday, he acknowledged the magnitude of SHA's role, pledging full support in its implementation.

"You have called yourself the bulldozer, and we know you are the bulldozer," he said while taking over.

Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale was present.

"Count me as one of the wheels on that bulldozer; I will be dependable, reliable and effective in delivering UHC. We must move together on health financing, commodities, workforce and digitisation,"

CS Duale expressed confidence in Dr Oluga, underscoring the need for accountability and integrity in leadership and emphasising the importance of both UHC and SHA in realising affordable healthcare.

"This moment is not just about changing leadership. It's about continuity, progress and a renewed commitment to serve Kenyans," Duale said.

"Dr Oluga, your leadership comes at a time when we are focused on UHC and operationalising SHA, two critical pillars for accessible healthcare. But we must also be anchored in Chapter 10 of our Constitution. Leadership, integrity, transparency and accountability are not optional. We must live them."

Oluga also committed to tackling systemic challenges in the health sector and modernising operations to ensure sustainable progress.

"One of the top things we must do is rebuild public trust in our healthcare system," Oluga said.

He added: "This is something urgent, not just for this ministry, but for the entire health sector. I live professionalism, patriotism, transparency and integrity; these values are the foundation we need to regain confidence from the people we serve."

During the meeting, outgoing PS Harry Kimtai reflected on his tenure, particularly the high-stakes shift from NHIF to SHA.

"One of the greatest challenges that will remain memorable to me is the transition from the National Health Insurance Fund to the Social Health Authority," Kimtai said.

He added: "There was fear, doubt and uncertainty, but the team made it happen. SHA is now strong and operational, and I thank everyone who made that possible."

Kimtai also pointed to leadership gaps within the Ministry.

"Another major issue we have faced is that many officers are in acting capacity. But the Human Resource instruments have been approved. I believe my colleague will complete this task, so that we stabilise leadership across the board."

As Oluga steps into his new role, there are high expectations for him to bring stability and innovation to a sector that remains under pressure.