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3d agoPERPETUA ETYANGRealtime
Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale. /ADEN DUALE/XHealth Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has lauded the transition from Linda Mama to the more comprehensive Linda Jamii package under the Social Health Authority, calling it a “major milestone” in Kenya’s quest for Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
The Social Health Authority (SHA), established in October 2023, replaced the NHIF as the national health insurer to advance Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
It manages the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF), with mandatory contributions required from all adults.
The SHA-managed scheme is seen as a pillar of the broader reforms aimed at achieving equitable and affordable healthcare for all Kenyans.
Speaking on the ongoing health sector reforms, Duale praised the enhanced scope of Linda Jamii, which now offers full maternal and newborn care beyond the limited coverage provided under the defunct NHIF-based Linda Mama scheme.
“Unlike the former NHIF scheme which only supported the mother and newborn at delivery, the enhanced Linda Jamii now provides comprehensive care throughout the maternal journey and beyond,” he said on X.
“This includes antenatal care, delivery—whether normal or by Caesarean Section—postnatal care, and essential newborn services.”
Duale highlighted the inclusion of Anti-D serum treatment as a critical advancement.
The intervention, essential for Rhesus-negative mothers, helps prevent serious complications in subsequent pregnancies.
Duale also noted that under Linda Jamii, mothers can now register their spouses and children—a significant departure from the previous model, which only covered the expectant woman.
In addition, the government has increased reimbursement rates to reflect the actual cost of quality maternal care.
Normal deliveries now attract Sh10,000, up from Sh2,500, while Caesarean Sections are covered up to Sh30,000, up from Sh5,000.
“This expansion reflects our commitment to strengthening maternal health systems and ensuring no mother is left behind,” Duale said.
The SHA covers a wide range of services, including primary, secondary, and emergency healthcare.
It also introduced targeted subsidies to support the poor and vulnerable, ensuring no one is left behind.
Additionally, the authority is designed to enhance accountability and streamline healthcare financing for greater efficiency and transparency.
