February 27, 2025
A group of patients, some accompanied by infants, stormed Afya House in Nairobi to express their frustrations over issues related to the State Health Insurance Fund (SHIF). The demonstrators demanded an audience with Health Cabinet Secretary Barasa, accusing officials of neglecting their concerns and failing to address the inefficiencies within the healthcare system. 
Patients’ Struggles and Grievances
Many of the protesters shared harrowing accounts of their struggles in accessing healthcare services due to inefficiencies within the SHIF system. Patients recounted delays in medical reimbursements, lack of access to critical treatments, and bureaucratic hurdles that have left many unable to afford necessary care.
“We have been paying our contributions diligently, yet when we need medical services, we are turned away by hospitals due to unpaid claims by SHIF,” said one protester, a mother holding her sick child.
Government’s Response
Health Cabinet Secretary Barasa briefly addressed the protesters, assuring them that the government was working on reforms to streamline SHIF operations. He acknowledged the patients’ grievances and stated that a task force had been established to investigate the reported inefficiencies and recommend urgent solutions.
“We understand your pain and frustration. The government is committed to fixing the system to ensure that all Kenyans receive the medical care they deserve,” Barasa told the crowd.
Public Outcry and Calls for Reform
The protest at Afya House has intensified calls for urgent reforms in the management of SHIF. Civil society organizations and healthcare advocates have urged the government to enhance transparency, eliminate corruption, and improve service delivery to prevent further suffering among vulnerable patients.
Conclusion
The demonstration at Afya House highlights the growing discontent with Kenya’s healthcare financing system. As the government promises reforms, citizens remain hopeful that their voices will lead to tangible improvements in service delivery. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether the authorities take meaningful steps to address the concerns raised by the protesting patients.
