The government has launched Linda Jamii, a comprehensive maternal care package under the new Social Health Authority (SHA), replacing the NHIF-based Linda Mama program.

Health Cabinet Secretary, Adan Duale says unlike Linda Mama, Linda Jamii covers the entire maternal journey from antenatal care and delivery (including C-sections) to postnatal care and essential newborn services. The package also now includes lifesaving Anti-D serum for Rhesus-negative mothers.

Importantly, mothers can register their spouse and children, expanding coverage beyond the individual.

To support quality care, reimbursement rates have also increased with mothers seaking normal delivery will be required to pay Sh10,000 up from Sh2,500) and for Caesarean section , they will be required to pay Sh30,000 (up from Sh5,000).

At the same time CS Duale said in a significant step toward achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC), the Ministry has introduced special health cards for teenage mothers, a move aimed at dismantling the barriers that often prevent young mothers from accessing critical health services.

Duale said the government is committed to ensuring no one is left behind in the national healthcare system especially vulnerable adolescent mothers who face stigma, discrimination, and neglect.

“We are removing the stigma and systemic gaps that have historically denied teenage mothers access to essential care,” said Duale.

According to the CS these special health cards will ensure they receive uninterrupted services, from antenatal and postnatal care to immunization, family planning, and psychosocial support.”

Duale noted that the targeted program also seeks to reduce maternal health risks, school dropouts, and the cycle of intergenerational poverty, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG 3), which focuses on ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all.

The new intervention complements existing programs such as Linda Jamii, signaling a shift from reactive to inclusive healthcare.

“We are not just treating patients. We are building a health system where even the most vulnerable — including teenage mothers, are seen, supported, and integrated into the healthcare ecosystem,” added the CS.

The move comes at a time when the government is rolling out broader reforms under the Social Health Authority (SHA) to enhance access and equity in Kenya’s healthcare system.