Matiang’i warns Kenya at risk of slow progress over SHA

Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i has warned that Kenya’s development could slow down due to underperformance by the Social Health Authority.

Speaking during the burial of Former Sports CS Ababu Namwamba’s mother in Busia on Saturday, August 30, 2025, Matiang’i emphasised the need for collective responsibility to ensure government systems function effectively across counties.

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“You know, if SHA does not work in Kisi, it doesn’t work in Busia, it doesn’t work in Bungoma, it doesn’t work in Kericho,” he said.

He framed his criticism as a call for cooperation among government officials and stakeholders. “Can we work on SHA, all of us, so that then it helps our people?” Matiang’i said, stressing that accountability is key to national progress.

The former CS criticised mismanagement of public resources, noting the impact on citizens and future generations.

“We get very surprised when we look at the amount of looting happening in the public sector…these are our resources, our children are here, we want to help them,” he said.

Matiang’i urged a collaborative approach to problem-solving. “If there is something that is not working, we solve it and we work on it together,” he said, highlighting the importance of teamwork in improving governance.

Matiang’i also praised exemplary civil servants as models for dedication, highlighting former health cs Susan Nakhumicha.

“Very clever, sharp woman who is serving our country,” he said, noting that committed officials are essential for development.

His remarks come after a week in which SHA faced public and political criticism over allegations of misused funds.

The Ministry of Health responded, noting that claims worth Ksh10.6 billion had been rejected due to fraudulent activities or non-compliance.

In March 2025, the Auditor General exposed a tainted Ksh104.8 billion contract for SHA’s digital healthcare system, awarded without competitive bidding, lacking clear scope definitions, and leaving ownership with the contractor consortium instead of SHA.