Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has issued a stark SHA collapse warning, claiming Kenya’s Social Health Authority could fail within six months due to massive unpaid hospital bills. He says faith-based and private hospitals are owed billions, raising fears of a nationwide healthcare crisis.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua warned that the Social Health Authority (SHA) stands on the verge of collapse, claiming the government-run insurance program faces a total breakdown within the next six months.
Addressing congregants at the ACK Diocese of Kirinyaga in Ndia Constituency on Sunday, March 29, Gachagua described a grim outlook for the country’s healthcare system. He cautioned that without immediate action, the failing SHA could spark a nationwide crisis in medical services.
“I have information that SHA will collapse in 6 months and we will have a crisis in the health sector,” Gachagua stated.
The former DP argued that unpaid bills owed to hospitals – specifically faith-based and private facilities – are crippling the entire health system. He claimed the government currently owes these facilities up to Ksh90 million, a debt he believes could force hospitals to shut their doors entirely.
“Today, as we speak, our hospitals , especially the faith-based hospitals are owed Ksh90 billion and are almost shutting down,” he added.
“I want to give advice to our hospitals. if SHA collapses, all our hospitals will collapse. Our hospitals should demand the release of the Ksh90 billion before they render services,” he said.
Gachagua accused President Ruto of neglecting his duties to focus on early 2027 campaigns while key sectors of the country crumble.
“We heard the president say that we in the opposition are spoiling the name of the country. We want to tell him it is not us, it is him,” Gachagua said. He pointed to several issues that he claims have drawn international criticism, including alleged abductions, killings, and accusations of interference in Sudan’s affairs. To handle the health crisis, the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader advised struggling hospitals to negotiate for upfront payments or monthly reimbursements in advance rather than waiting for delayed funds.
Gachagua suggested this strategy could protect the financial stability of these facilities and ensure patients continue to receive care.
“I propose and advice the hospitals to consider demanding up-front payment from the SHA. They demand a monthly average and get paid in advance,” the former DP added.
