The Social Health Authority (SHA) on Monday, 24 November 2025, released a list of 481 candidates shortlisted for interviews, marking a significant milestone in the government's plan to operationalize Kenya's Universal Health Coverage (UHC). The candidates were selected from a pool of 8,057 applicants vying for 212 positions advertised in a nationwide recruitment drive that commenced on 12 September 2025.

This hiring process is pivotal for building the institutional capacity of the SHA, the state corporation established under the Social Health Insurance Act of 2023 to replace the decades-old National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF). The new staff will form the backbone of the authority tasked with implementing a new era of social health insurance in Kenya.

A New Framework for Health Insurance

The establishment of the SHA is a cornerstone of the government's efforts to achieve UHC. The Social Health Insurance Act, 2023, which came into effect on 22 November 2023, repeals the NHIF Act and creates a new three-tiered fund structure. This structure includes the Primary Healthcare Fund, the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF), and the Emergency, Chronic, and Critical Illness Fund, all to be managed by the SHA.

The transition from NHIF to SHA officially began on 1 October 2024, with the goal of creating a more equitable and efficient system. Unlike the previous model, the new framework mandates registration for every Kenyan and requires contributions of 2.75% of gross salary for those in salaried employment, aiming to broaden the coverage pool and reduce out-of-pocket expenses for citizens.

High Stakes Recruitment

The recruitment drive, which closed on 3 October 2025, attracted substantial public interest, signaling high expectations for the new health authority. The advertised positions spanned various departments crucial for the SHA's mandate, including claims management, administration, compliance, and customer experience. According to the SHA, the roles that attracted the highest number of applicants were Principal Registration and Compliance Officer and county-level Claims Management Officer positions.

The large number of applications underscores the public's engagement with the ongoing healthcare reforms. The performance of the individuals ultimately hired will be critical to addressing the challenges that plagued the former NHIF, such as administrative inefficiencies and coverage gaps.

Next Steps and Public Scrutiny

Interviews for the 481 shortlisted candidates are scheduled to run from Friday, 28 November 2025, to Monday, 8 December 2025. The interviews will be held at the SHA Headquarters in Nairobi. Candidates are required to present original academic and professional certificates, as well as clearance documents from the DCI, KRA, HELB, EACC, and a registered Credit Reference Bureau (CRB).

In a move towards transparency and accountability, the SHA has invited public participation in the vetting process. Members of the public can submit any adverse, credible information regarding the suitability of any shortlisted candidate to the SHA's Chief Executive Officer on or before 8 December 2025. This step aims to ensure that the individuals selected to lead the new health insurance framework meet the integrity standards required under Chapter Six of the Constitution.

The successful conclusion of this recruitment will be a foundational step in the SHA's journey. The new team will be tasked with managing the registration of all Kenyans, contracting healthcare providers, processing claims, and ensuring the financial sustainability of the new funds, ultimately determining the success of Kenya's quest for Universal Health Coverage.