Governor Abdullahi praises new health scheme

Wajir Governor Ahmed Abdullahi when he appeared before the Senate National Cohesion, Equal Opportunity and Regional Integration Committee at Bunge Tower in Nairobi on September 05, 2024. [Boniface Okendo, Standard]

Wajir Governor Ahmed Abdullahi, who also serves as the Chairman of the Council of Governors, has called on residents to embrace the Social Health Authority (SHA) scheme to ease the financial burden of accessing healthcare.

Speaking during Jamhuri Day celebrations at Wajir Stadium, the governor lauded the program's success, emphasizing its potential to transform the region's healthcare landscape. "SHA is not just a program; it is a lifeline for many families struggling with healthcare costs," he stated.

Governor Abdullahi highlighted a recent case to illustrate SHA's impact. He recounted the story of a patient at Wajir Referral Hospital who underwent a hip replacement surgery valued at Sh330,000, fully covered by the scheme.

"Without SHA, this would have been an impossible dream for the family," the governor noted, adding that such success stories underline the importance of enrolling in the program. He urged residents to prioritize their health by registering with the initiative.

The governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to providing accessible healthcare for all, especially in rural and marginalized areas. He noted that SHA complements existing healthcare programs, reducing out-of-pocket expenses for residents.

"Health is wealth, and with SHA, we are building a healthier, more productive society," he said. Abdullahi further assured the crowd of ongoing efforts to strengthen healthcare infrastructure and services in the county.

His sentiments were echoed by Wajir County Senator Abass Sheikh, who also took to the podium to rally support for the SHA program.

Senator Sheikh emphasized that the health scheme is a game-changer for Wajir residents, particularly those in remote areas who often face significant challenges accessing affordable healthcare.

 "This initiative ensures that no one is left behind, and every resident has the opportunity to receive quality medical care without financial hardship," he said. The senator further called on community leaders to spread awareness about the program, stressing its role in fostering a healthier and more resilient population.