Kenya, March 14 -- The Kenyan government has rolled out a nationwide identification registration campaign aimed at increasing access to the Social Health Authority (SHA) program.
The initiative specifically targets prisoners, residents of border counties, and high school students, groups identified as key priorities in the drive to expand healthcare coverage.
Authorities say the move is part of a broader effort to ensure all citizens are registered with a national ID, a prerequisite for enrolling in the SHA, which provides subsidised healthcare services.
The campaign, launched this week, seeks to address gaps in registration among underserved and hard-to-reach populations.
In border counties, officials are deploying mobile registration units to remote areas, while in prisons, the government is collaborating with correctional facilities to document inmates.
High school students above the age of 16 are also being registered in a bid to integrate younger citizens into the system ahead of their transition to adulthood.
"The goal is to leave no one behind," said a spokesperson from the Ministry of Interior. "By targeting these groups, we are ensuring equitable access to healthcare and other essential services under the SHA framework."
The initiative has been met with mixed reactions. Some stakeholders have praised the government's proactive approach, while others have raised concerns about logistical challenges and data privacy, particularly in border regions and correctional institutions.
The government has assured the public that measures are in place to safeguard personal information and streamline the registration process.
The campaign is expected to run through the end of the year, with officials urging eligible individuals to participate.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Bana Kenya.