The Social Health Authority (SHA) has reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing cancer care and expanding oncology benefits under Kenya’s new universal health coverage framework.
In a public notice issued on October 9, 2025, SHA Chief Executive Officer Dr. Mercy Mwangangi assured Kenyans that the Authority remains dedicated to ensuring access to quality and affordable healthcare, particularly for cancer patients and their families.
Dr. Mwangangi noted that cancer care remains a top priority for SHA, recognizing the emotional, financial, and physical burden faced by patients.
The Authority aims to provide improved health outcomes and financial protection under the new Social Health Insurance program, which replaces the former National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF).
“Our objective, as mandated under the law, is to provide a framework for improved health outcomes and financial protection in line with the right to health and universal health coverage,” read the statement.
SHA also acknowledged the Kenya Network of Cancer Organizations (KENCO) for its advocacy and collaboration in shaping cancer policies and tariff packages.
The Authority emphasized that progress has been made through ongoing consultations with patient groups, ensuring inclusivity in designing health benefit packages.
The notice further highlighted that the Benefits Package and Tariffs Advisory Panel (BPTAP), recently gazetted, is reviewing the oncology package with the goal of increasing the limit for cancer treatment benefits and expanding access to comprehensive coverage.
In a significant step earlier this year, SHA increased the oncology package limit from KSh 400,000 to KSh 500,000, easing the financial strain on patients undergoing treatment.
The Authority has also partnered with hospitals, professional associations, and pharmaceutical manufacturers to lower treatment costs.
One such initiative includes a strategic partnership with Roche, which has reduced the cost of breast cancer treatment for HER2-positive patients from KSh 120,000 to KSh 40,000, making care more affordable and accessible.
Dr. Mwangangi emphasized that the benefit package will continue to evolve, guided by data, clinical evidence, and patient feedback, to ensure that no Kenyan is left behind in accessing lifesaving care.
“SHA remains open to feedback and committed to continuous improvement to ensure that no Kenyan is left behind in accessing lifesaving care,” she said.
The reaffirmation marks a major step in Kenya’s ongoing health reform agenda, aimed at building a more inclusive, efficient, and sustainable national health coverage system.
