The government has launched the National Social Health Authority (SHA) registration drive for inmates across all prisons and State Department of Correctional Services.
This is part of efforts to make sure everyone in Kenya, including inmates, gets access to healthcare under the Universal Health Coverage plan.
The launch took place at Lang’ata Women’s Prison in Nairobi.
During the event, officials from the ministries of health, immigration, correctional services, and parliamentary affairs were present.
The government will cover the cost of health insurance for all inmates through the State Department of Correctional Services. The drive also includes helping inmates get national ID cards.
Dr Salome Beacco said it is important that every Kenyan registers for SHA so that no one is left behind.
“Sometimes we resist change because we do not understand it,” she said.
She added that 8,000 inmates have already been registered, and more will be added soon.
The PS for Immigration and Citizen Services Dr Belio Kipsang, said that the government’s aim is to ensure all its programs are fair and inclusive.
