The National Assembly has passed the Supplementary Appropriation Bill, unlocking Sh12.7 billion in additional funding for the Social Health Authority (SHA) as part of efforts to strengthen Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and address gaps in the healthcare system.

The new allocations aim to expand access to essential medical services, stabilise key health institutions, and support critical healthcare initiatives.

A significant portion of the funding will go towards reinforcing SHA’s operations, with Sh3 billion allocated as seed capital for the Primary Healthcare Fund to enhance access to basic medical services.

Another Sh3 billion has been set aside for the Emergency, Chronic, and Critical Illness Fund, providing financial relief to Kenyans facing severe health conditions.

To ensure the steady supply of essential medicines and medical supplies, the Bill directs Sh1.5 billion towards the recapitalisation of the Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (KEMSA).

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Additionally, healthcare professional interns will receive Sh1.5 billion in stipends to address staff shortages and improve service delivery.

Key hospitals will also benefit from the supplementary budget, with Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital receiving Sh1 billion to cover personnel emoluments, while Primary Health Care Networks will be supported with Sh0.6 billion to improve service provision at the community level.

Kenyatta National Hospital and Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral, and Research Hospital have been allocated Sh1.7 billion and Sh1.4 billion, respectively, to strengthen specialised healthcare and medical research.

“Further, the Bill aims to facilitate the approval of additional allocations required to address various financing gaps, including shortfalls in personnel emoluments, adjustments to Appropriation-in-Aid (A-I-A) receipts, and realignment of budgetary provisions to projected absorption levels.”

The funding boost comes as the government seeks to revitalise SHA following concerns over the inefficiencies of the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF).

The latest allocations are expected to improve service delivery, bridge financial shortfalls, and enhance the overall efficiency of Kenya’s healthcare system under UHC.