Ruto introduces new SHA payment method
In a significant move to enhance healthcare accessibility for Kenyans in the informal sector, President William Ruto has unveiled a new payment initiative for the Social Health Authority (SHA), dubbed “Lipa SHA Pole Pole” or “Lipa SHA Mos Mos“, targeting Kenyans working in the informal sector.
Speaking during the 62nd Madaraka Day celebrations on Sunday, June 1, 2025, in Homa Bay County, Ruto announced that Kenyans would now have the option to remit their SHA contributions in manageable instalments or through a flexible payment plan tailored to their financial capabilities.
”To address persistent challenges such as irregular premium payments and other contributions among the informal workers, we are introducing an innovative and inclusive payment solution called LIPA SHA POLE POLE or LIPA SHA MOS MOS,” Ruto announced.
”This initiative will enable Kenyans to remit their annual SHA contributions through flexible, manageable instalments, whether monthly, weekly, or even daily, based on their financial abilities.”
The head of state further stated that the scheme aims to provide flexible payment options for SHA insurance contributions as well as to ensure continuous health coverage for families without imposing financial strain, thereby promoting the sustainability of the health insurance fund.
“It ensures families maintain continuous health coverage without financial strain while promoting the sustainability of the health insurance fund,” he added.
How it works
Ruto, in addition, emphasised the simplicity and accessibility of the new health insurance payment system, stating, Citizens can dial *147# and follow the prompts to register and begin their contributions immediately.
He further highlighted that the implementation of this initiative is the result of a strategic partnership involving the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Cooperatives and MSMEs, mobile network operators, financial institutions, and the Hustler Fund.
“LIPA SHA POLE POLE has been made possible through a strategic partnership between the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Cooperatives and MSMEs, mobile network operators, and financial institutions through the Hustler Fund. The system is simple and accessible; citizens can dial *147# and follow the prompts to enrol and begin their contributions immediately,” he explained.
The president also emphasised that no Kenyan should have to sacrifice their dignity or assets to afford medical treatment. Ruto highlighted that the SHA aims to eliminate the financial hardships associated with medical care by providing universal health coverage, ensuring that healthcare becomes a right for all citizens, regardless of their financial status.
“I urge every Kenyan to take charge of their health by enrolling with the Social Health Authority (SHA), so that together we can end the heartbreaking cycle where families are forced to auction their livestock, sell their land, or part with their life’s possessions just to afford medical care,” he said.
“No Kenyan should have to choose between life-saving treatment and their dignity. Let us unite to build a healthcare system rooted in dignity, equality, and compassion; a system where access to care is a right, not a privilege for a few.”
