President Ruto announces Sh3 billion to clear NHIF arrears

President William Ruto during Mashujaa Day celebrations in Kwale. [Kelvin Karani, Standard]

President William Ruto has announced the release of Sh3 billion to settle outstanding payments owed to the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) and healthcare providers.

The unexpected funding announcement came during the 61st Mashujaa Day celebrations at Kwale Stadium on Sunday, October 20.

Ruto stated the allocation aims to support healthcare providers as the government transitions to the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF).

He assured Kenyans that the SHIF would be fully operational in a few weeks, adding that no NHIF employees would lose their jobs during this transition.

"All citizens are equal members of the political community, entitled to contribute to the economy and share in development," said Ruto, underscoring the government's commitment to inclusivity.

The President also highlighted broader initiatives under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda, which aims to eradicate hunger and poverty.

He noted the Affordable Housing Programme's target of delivering 200,000 homes annually to improve living conditions for many Kenyans.

"Our collaboration with the Jua Kali sector has demonstrated the Affordable Housing Program’s potential to transform local manufacturing," he observed.

He mentioned the Sh720 million subcontract awarded to the Soweto Highrise Fabricators and Woodworkers Association in Kibera as an example of empowering local businesses.

Ruto reiterated that advancing Universal Health Coverage remains a priority, ensuring every Kenyan can access comprehensive healthcare services.

As of October, he said, 12.9 million Kenyans were registered with the Social Health Authority.

"In a matter of weeks, SHIF will be serving us efficiently and making the dream of Universal Health Coverage come true," he added.

At the same time, the government is investing Sh2.4 billion in aquaculture and mariculture development, with plans for the National Mariculture Resource and Training Centre in Shimoni, Kwale County, to support fish farming and research.

The government has procured and distributed 123 fishing boats to local communities to facilitate deep-water fishing, allocating Sh600 million for the acquisition of deep-sea fishing vessels.