NAIROBI, Kenya (BG) – Marking 61 years of independence on Thursday, Kenya celebrated a milestone toward equitable healthcare as President William Ruto announced that 11 million citizens have been enrolled in the Taifa Care system.
The new initiative, which replaces the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF), aims to provide all Kenyans with comprehensive and inclusive healthcare services.
The Taifa Care system, launched two months ago, represents a significant step in Kenya’s Universal Health Coverage (UHC) agenda.
President Ruto highlighted the program’s transformative potential, particularly for underserved counties like Marsabit, Turkana, and Mandera.
He urged citizens to register and take advantage of the healthcare benefits while commending counties such as Kirinyaga, Nyeri, and Bomet for leading in registration numbers.
“We are confident that we will quickly surpass the 16.5 million citizens so far registered and provide all Kenyans with highquality healthcare that is efficient, effective, affordable and sustainable,” Ruto said, emphasizing that Taifa Care ensures healthcare access without discrimination.
He added that the program employs innovative digital tools to enhance efficiency and transparency while addressing critical needs like infrastructure improvements and equitable resource allocation.
Bridging Gaps in Healthcare Access
Kenya has faced long-standing challenges in healthcare access, with significant disparities between urban and rural areas.
Taifa Care addresses these gaps by ensuring that even remote communities can benefit from subsidized health services.
The program also prioritizes preventive care, maternal health, and child welfare, aligning with Kenya’s commitment to Sustainable Development Goal 3 on health and well-being.
A Legacy of Progress
As Kenya celebrates its independence, the strides made in healthcare reflect the nation’s broader aspirations.
Since gaining independence in 1963, the country has transitioned from a colonial system with limited access to education and healthcare to a Republic striving for inclusivity and equity.
President Ruto’s administration has linked the success of Taifa Care to its broader economic transformation agenda, noting that healthier citizens translate to a more productive workforce.
The President encouraged citizens to register for the program, underscoring that access to healthcare is a fundamental right enshrined in the Kenyan Constitution.
With the Taifa Care system already reaching millions, Kenya’s healthcare journey serves as a beacon of hope and a model for other nations striving for equitable health coverage.
