Wamuzi News Ke
President William Ruto has announced a major expansion of cancer treatment support under the Social Health Authority (SHA), revealing that Kenyans will now receive up to KSh 800,000 for cancer care beginning December 1, 2025.
The announcement signals one of the most significant shifts in the country’s health financing framework in recent years.The new cover is intended to ease the burden on families that have long struggled with the high cost of cancer diagnosis and treatment. Many households have been forced into debt or delayed treatment due to financial constraints.
The President said the decision is part of his administration’s plan to strengthen universal health coverage and ensure that chronic illnesses do not push citizens into poverty.The enhanced package will cover a wide range of cancer interventions, including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgeries, imaging, and specialized assessments.
Funds will be paid directly to accredited hospitals under the SHA system to prevent misuse and delays.Health experts have described the move as a positive and long-awaited step, noting that Kenya records thousands of new cancer cases annually and many remain undiagnosed due to cost barriers.
They, however, cautioned that the increased funding must be accompanied by improvements in medical infrastructure, including availability of oncology equipment, trained specialists, and timely drug supplies.The SHA has begun reviewing its internal processes to prepare for the surge in applications once the expanded cover takes effect.
Officials say strict verification mechanisms will be put in place to maintain accountability and protect the fund from fraudulent claims.Stakeholders in the health sector have urged the government to act quickly to resolve existing gaps in public hospitals to ensure the policy achieves its intended impact.
They warn that without adequate investment in oncology departments and regional treatment centers, many patients may still face long waiting times and limited access to services.Despite the challenges ahead, the announcement has been welcomed as a major relief for Kenyan families affected by cancer.
The increased cover marks a significant shift toward reducing out-of-pocket medical expenses and improving access to lifesaving treatment across the country.
