Kenyans Recall Ruto’s Free Healthcare Promise

President William Ruto’s ambitious pledge of free healthcare for all Kenyans, announced in November 2023, has encountered an initial hurdle as the proposed Social Health Insurance fund battles legal challenges.

Speaking at a church service in Bomet county, President Ruto declared that from January 2024, medical care would be free at all Kenyan hospitals. He outlined plans to adjust the existing National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) and introduce subsidized premiums for low-income earners, with the government covering costs for those unable to pay.

However, the rollout of these reforms has been delayed due to a court case. In December 2023, the High Court issued a temporary order suspending the implementation of the Social Health Insurance Act 2023, the framework for the promised free healthcare system. This suspension will remain in effect until February 2024, when the court will hear the case.

This legal obstacle poses a challenge to the immediate launch of the promised universal healthcare plan. While Kenyans await the court’s decision, concerns over the delayed implementation are likely to arise. Additionally, questions about the long-term sustainability of the proposed funding mechanisms and the impact on existing healthcare infrastructure remain unanswered.

Despite the initial setback, the government has reiterated its commitment to achieving universal healthcare access. It remains to be seen whether the Social Health Insurance Act will be amended or upheld, and how soon Kenyans can expect to see the full realization of President Ruto’s free healthcare promise.