The National Treasury has proposed Sh177.2 billion to advance Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in the 2026/27 financial year, in a plan aimed at expanding access to quality healthcare and strengthening service delivery.
Cabinet Secretary for the National Treasury, John Mbadi, said equitable healthcare access remains central to human capital development and economic growth.
He noted that 31.2 million Kenyans are now registered under the Social Health Authority (SHA), supported by ongoing reforms in primary healthcare.
Mbadi further said the recruitment of 107,831 Community Health Promoters and deployment of 16,810 medical interns are in place to improve grassroots service delivery.
The allocation includes Sh19.1 billion for the Primary Healthcare Fund and Sh8.6 billion for salaries of UHC staff. A further Sh18.5 billion has been set aside for the Global Fund to support disease control and immunisation programmes, while Sh6.4 billion will go towards vaccines.
For specialized care, Sh3.0 billion has been proposed for emergencies and chronic illnesses, alongside Sh45.3 billion for referral hospitals to enhance access to specialized treatment.
Mbadi also announced funding for major infrastructure projects, including Sh2.0 billion for a new 2,000-bed facility at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital and additional funds for Cancer care expansion and equipment upgrades at Kenyatta National Hospital.
To strengthen health systems, Ksh 20.9 billion has been allocated to the Kenya Medical Supplies Authority, while further funding will support training institutions, medical interns, and Community Health Promoters.
Mbadi said the investments aim to strengthen healthcare delivery, improve access, and reduce the burden of disease nationwide.
According to the CS, Kenyans want an economy that works for them; an economy where the cost of living is manageable; where opportunities for employment and businesses are expanding; and where the benefits of economic growth are shared widely across society.
By James Kabutu
