The Wajir County Steering Committee has raised concerns about the sluggish pace of registration under the Social Health Authority (SHA) programme, which aims to improve access to healthcare for residents.
According to the latest data from SHA, only 31,000 individuals have been registered in Wajir County against a target population of 781,263, raising alarm among county and national leaders.
Speaking after chairing the committee meeting, Wajir County Commissioner Karuki Ngumu reiterated the government’s commitment to addressing the challenges hindering registration.
“This programme aims to improve access to primary healthcare services, provide social health insurance coverage, and offer care for chronic illnesses.
Administrators, your job is already cut out. You have to up your game as far as ensuring every citizen here is registered,” Ngumu said during a press briefing.
Wajir Governor Ahmed Abdullahi echoed the same concerns, pointing out that many residents, especially in remote areas, lack adequate information about the SHA health scheme.
“As a county, we are committed to making this initiative a success. The current population is way below the target, and this should worry all of us,” Governor Abdullahi stated.
The governor assured residents that the county government would collaborate closely with national government officials to raise awareness and boost enrolment.
“We urge the people of Wajir to participate in this programme to access essential healthcare services and contribute to building a healthier future,” Abdullahi added.
Both leaders emphasized the importance of collective effort, with Governor Abdullahi praising the County Commissioner-led team for their critical role in driving the initiative.
“The people of Wajir deserve to benefit from these essential services, and we are committed to ensuring that no one is left behind,” Abdullahi said.
Leaders are calling on all stakeholders, including administrators and residents, to double their efforts to ensure the programme meets its target and delivers its promise of better healthcare access to all.
By Hamdi Buthul
