The Social Health Authority (SHA) emphasizes the importance of timely health contributions for informal sector workers. Delays in payment will incur a 2% penalty on any outstanding amounts, and access to healthcare will remain suspended until all arrears and penalties are settled.
In a public notice dated August 1, 2026, SHA Chief Executive Officer Mercy Mwangangi encouraged farmers, traders, boda boda riders, casual workers, domestic workers, and other self-employed Kenyans to register and ensure their contributions are up-to-date.
This requirement is outlined in the Social Health Insurance Act, 2023, and its 2024 Regulations, mandating residents to register with SHA and contribute to access healthcare services.
According to Section 27(6) of the Social Health Insurance Act, any late payment incurs a 2% penalty on the outstanding amount for the period it remains unpaid.
Understanding the 2% Penalty
Section 27(6) specifies that unpaid contributions attract a 2% penalty for each period they remain outstanding. Additionally, Section 27(7) states that members cannot resume healthcare services under the Fund until they have cleared both outstanding contributions and accumulated penalties. Thus, delaying payment results in an increased financial obligation and suspension of healthcare services until the dues are settled.
SHA offers multiple channels for informal sector workers to register. You can register by dialing *147#, visiting sha.go.ke or afyayangu.go.ke, or going to a SHA branch or Huduma Centre.
To register, you need a National ID and a registered phone number. After that, create a PIN, confirm your details, add dependents, and complete means testing by providing information about your income, household size, and assets.
Flexible Payment Options Available
Amid rising concerns regarding gaps between contribution payments, member registration, and actual healthcare access, SHA understands the challenges workers and their dependents face when their details are missing or incorrectly captured.
After assessment, SHA will determine the appropriate contribution for each member. You can opt to pay the full annual contribution upfront or utilize the Lipa Pole Pole installment option. Payments can be made via Paybill 200222, using your National ID number as the account number.
Your coverage becomes active once SHA receives payments equivalent to four months of the annual contribution. Members who maintain active coverage can access healthcare services at SHA-accredited facilities nationwide simply by presenting their National ID.
Addressing Payment Delays
The penalty for unpaid contributions continues to apply for each period they remain outstanding. To restore healthcare access, members must settle both the outstanding contributions and any accumulated penalties.
This requirement underscores the responsibility of informal sector members to keep their contributions current, especially since their income is not deducted through a formal payroll system.
SHA urges all eligible residents who have yet to register to take advantage of its digital platforms or visit physical service points for registration. By utilizing the available payment options, members can keep their contributions up to date, thereby avoiding the 2% penalty and the suspension of healthcare services mandated by law. Together, let’s ensure access to essential healthcare for everyone.
