# Kenya health insurance reform

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/kenya-health-insurance-reform
> Updated: 2026-08-26T15:31:04.000Z. Sources: 2. Developments: 2.

The Kenyan government has introduced the Social Health Insurance Act as a major reform to achieve universal health coverage. This legislation replaces the National Hospital Insurance Fund, which previously covered roughly 25% of the population.

Under the new system, the Social Health Authority will manage a framework where all citizens are expected to register and contribute 2.75% of their income, regardless of their formal employment status. The reform aims to reduce the high level of out-of-pocket expenditures that have historically limited healthcare access.

The implementation has been marked by legal disputes. Although the High Court previously struck down portions of the law due to a lack of public participation, an appeals court stayed that ruling, allowing the transition to proceed.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-26: Kenya implements Social Health Insurance Act for universal coverage

Kenya is implementing the Social Health Insurance Act to replace its aging state insurer, requiring citizens to contribute 2.75% of their income for universal coverage despite ongoing legal challenges.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/kenya-implements-social-health-insurance-act-for-universal-coverage

### 2026-08-11: Kenya introduces mandatory travel insurance for international visitors

Kenya will require international visitors staying under 12 months to hold travel insurance with at least US$50,000 in medical coverage, including emergency evacuation and repatriation.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/kenya-introduces-mandatory-travel-insurance-for-international-visitors

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Cite as: Kenya health insurance reform. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/kenya-health-insurance-reform