In a landmark announcement made on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, by Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale, mental health services have officially been integrated into Kenya's national insurance benefits package under the Social Health Authority (SHA). This move marks the first time such services are comprehensively covered, aiming to alleviate the financial burden on individuals seeking mental healthcare.

Speaking at the 2nd National Mental Health Conference 2025 in Nairobi, themed “Securing the Future: A Holistic Approach to Mental Health for Generations,” CS Duale emphasised that this integration ensures no Kenyan has to choose between their mental well-being and their family's sustenance. The development aligns with the Ministry of Health's broader strategy to transform mental health perception, financing, and delivery, guided by the Mental Health Act, 2023, and the Kenya Mental Health Policy (2015-2030).

Historical and Political Context

For decades, mental health in Kenya has been a low policy and budget priority, often overshadowed by other pressing health concerns like communicable diseases. The Kenya Mental Health Policy 2015-2030, which provides a framework for reforms, envisions a nation where mental health is valued and promoted. Despite this, actual budgetary allocation has remained critically low, with less than 1% of the Ministry of Health's budget dedicated to mental health, translating to approximately KES 0.15 per capita against a recommended KES 250.

The Social Health Authority (SHA) was established under the Social Health Insurance Act, 2023, replacing the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) on October 1, 2024. Its mandate is to provide accessible, affordable, sustainable, and quality health insurance for all Kenyan citizens. The SHA manages three distinct funds: the Primary Healthcare Fund, the Social Health Insurance Fund, and the Emergency, Chronic, and Critical Illness Fund.

Laws, Policy, and Governance

The integration of mental health services into the SHA benefits package is a direct outcome of the Mental Health Act, 2023, and the Kenya Mental Health Policy (2015-2030). These frameworks recognise mental health as a fundamental human right, guaranteeing dignity, access, and protection for all Kenyans living with mental illness. The government's commitment extends to decentralising mental health services to community levels, supported by 107,000 digitally empowered Community Health Promoters (CHPs). These frontline workers are expected to provide early, person-centred support, reinforcing the rollout of Kenya's Taifa Care Model.

Stakeholders and Testimonies

The move has been widely welcomed by mental health advocates and healthcare professionals who have long called for increased investment and coverage. Historically, stigma and limited resources have prevented many Kenyans from seeking necessary care. The inclusion of mental health in the national insurance scheme is seen as a crucial step in destigmatising mental illness and ensuring equitable access to treatment. CS Duale has urged for stronger partnerships across national and county governments, schools, faith institutions, civil society, and the private sector to build a united national response to mental health.

Evidence and Data

Mental health conditions affect a significant portion of the Kenyan population. Approximately one in four people seeking healthcare in Kenya have a mental health condition. Depression, anxiety disorders, substance abuse, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are among the most prevalent conditions. Despite this high burden, only about 20-25% of those needing mental health services can access them, largely due to a severe shortage of mental health professionals and inadequate funding. Kenya has fewer than 100 practicing psychiatrists for a population of over 50 million.

Risks and Implications

While the integration of mental health services into SHA is a positive development, challenges remain. The effective implementation will depend on clear guidelines regarding timelines, costs, and safeguards. Ensuring adequate funding and addressing the critical shortage of mental health professionals across the country will be crucial for the success of this initiative. There are also concerns about the capacity of existing facilities, as an audit in 2017 revealed that 22 out of 47 counties lacked psychiatric units, leading to overreliance on Mathari National Hospital.

Unknowns and Controversies

Details regarding the specific scope of mental health services covered under the SHA benefits package, including the types of therapies, medications, and duration of treatment, are yet to be fully clarified. The exact financial implications for contributors and the mechanisms for seamless access to care across different levels of healthcare facilities will also need to be communicated transparently. There have been past concerns regarding the overall implementation of SHA, including issues with means testing and timely payments to healthcare providers.

Timeline and Next Steps

The Social Health Authority (SHA) began operations on October 1, 2024, replacing the NHIF. The integration of mental health services into the national insurance benefits package was announced on Wednesday, October 8, 2025. The Ministry of Health has enlisted 107,000 Community Health Promoters to decentralise mental health services.

What to Watch

Stakeholders will be closely watching for the detailed rollout plan of mental health services under SHA, including public awareness campaigns to combat stigma and encourage uptake of services. The government's efforts to increase the number of mental health professionals and improve infrastructure, particularly in underserved rural areas, will be critical. Furthermore, the financial sustainability of the SHA and its ability to consistently meet claims for mental health treatment will be a key indicator of success.