In an effort to enhance healthcare accessibility, the Nairobi City County Government has announced plans to increase the enrolment of members from cooperatives and Savings and Credit Cooperative Organisations (SACCOS) in the Social Health Insurance (SHA) programme.
The strategic move is designed to boost health coverage for the city’s informal sector, which plays a pivotal role in Kenya’s economy.
During a capacity-building and sensitization workshop held in Machakos, Nairobi County Executive for Business and Hustler Opportunities, Dr. Anastasia Nyalita, emphasized the significance of this programme.
“Nairobi County accounts for over 60% of all cooperatives and SACCOS in Kenya. This organized sector is crucial to increasing participation in our health schemes,” she stated.
“The innovative strategy aims to designate members of these organized groups as remitting entities for annual and monthly insurance premiums to SHA. By doing so, the initiative is poised to provide health coverage for over 500,000 households, ensuring that vulnerable populations have access to necessary medical services,” added Dr. Nyalita.
Earlier, Chief Officer for Cooperatives, George Mutiso, stated that target sectors would include Matatu (public transport), Boda Boda (motorcycle taxis), Mama Bonga (informal food vendors), Jua Kali (informal artisans), Mitumba (second-hand clothing vendors), and various worker cooperatives.
“This comprehensive approach is touted as a solution to the long-standing challenges faced in enrolling the informal sector into health insurance schemes.” noted Mutiso
As the city embarks on this transformative journey, the County government aims to set a precedent for similar initiatives across the city, fostering a healthier, more secure future for all Nairobi residents,” concluded Dr. Nyalita.
