The Social Health Authority (SHA) has directed non-salaried households and informal sector workers to register for the government’s health insurance programme, warning that delayed contributions will attract a two per cent penalty.

In a notice dated July 31, SHA said all Kenyans outside formal employment, including farmers, traders, boda boda riders, casual labourers, domestic workers and self-employed individuals, are required to register under the Social Health Insurance Act, 2023, and its accompanying regulations.

The authority said registration will enable members and their eligible dependants to access healthcare services at SHA-accredited health facilities across the country.

SHA Chief Executive Officer Dr. Mercy Mwangangi urged households that have not yet enrolled to complete the registration process and provide accurate information about their income, household composition and assets to facilitate the determination of their contributions.

“Every Kenyan has the right to affordable, quality healthcare,” the authority said, underscoring the need for all eligible residents, particularly those in the informal sector, to register for the programme.

SHA said Kenyans can register by dialling *147# on their mobile phones and following the prompts, through the authority’s online portal, or by visiting any SHA branch office or Huduma Centre.

To complete registration, applicants must create an account using their National Identification number and a mobile phone number registered in their name before setting up a confidential PIN.

Members are then required to verify their personal details, add eligible dependants such as spouses and children, and complete the mandatory means-testing process.

According to SHA, the means-testing exercise requires applicants to disclose accurate information on their income, household and assets. The data is used to determine the amount each household is required to contribute toward healthcare coverage.

Once the assessment is complete, SHA will notify members of their monthly or annual contribution based on the information provided.

The authority cautioned that failure to remit contributions on time will attract a two per cent penalty on outstanding amounts, urging members to comply with the payment schedule to maintain uninterrupted access to healthcare services.