Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Daily Nation
Published on 2024-01-27 10:22:52
The government has formed a committee to investigate NHIF assets, liabilities, outstanding pension, and other benefits as part of its transition to the Social Health Authority, following its winding up. Health CS Susan Nakhumicha appointed the committee, chaired by Kap-Kirwok Jason, to ensure a seamless transition. Other committee members include Daniel Mwai, Kipruto Chermusoi Chesang, Jacinta N Wasike, Gladys Wambui Mburu, Stephen Kaboro Mbugua, Elizabeth Wangia, Christopher Leparan Tialal, Jacob Otachi Orina, and Stanley Bii.
The gazette notice dated January 25, 2024, notified the public about the appointment, stating the committee’s role in ensuring a smooth transition from NHIF to the Social Health Authority. NHIF reported a 30% increase in premiums collected, reaching Sh78.84 billion in 2021/2022 from Sh60.78 billion in the previous financial year. Additionally, disbursements to hospitals increased by 45% from Sh49.04 billion to Sh71.34 billion.
The committee’s primary mandate is overseeing the winding-up of NHIF and developing a roadmap for the transition to the Social Health Authority. It is also responsible for advising on other matters related to the winding-up process. According to the Transitional Provisions of the Social Health Insurance Act, 2023, the committee is tasked with developing guidelines and operational mechanisms for the audit, verification, and transfer of NHIF’s assets and liabilities, human resources, pensions, and other staff benefits.
Furthermore, the committee is responsible for establishing a legal and institutional framework for a coordinated transition to the Social Health Authority while ensuring continued service delivery to Kenyans. It is also mandated to review official reports, policies, legislation, and other documents, and may co-opt experts in specific areas as necessary. The committee will serve for six months and will have a matrix reporting relationship with the Health CS, the chairperson of the Social Health Authority Board, and the chairperson of the National Health Insurance Fund Board.
The committee’s secretariat, based at the offices of the Social Health Authority, will be responsible for interpreting policy, developing and implementing programs and activities, and providing appropriate background information. Following the Court of Appeal’s order lifting the ban on the implementation of the Social Health Insurance (SHI) Act 2023, the Ministry of Health is working to have regulations in place for its implementation. The SHI Act, passed in the previous year and effective November 22, 2023, establishes the Social Health Authority (SHA) to replace NHIF and be headed by a Director-General overseen by a non-executive chairman.
