Kenyan state's systemic weakness revealed through the Sha heist scandal
In Kenya, the prices of goods have seen an increase, with August's inflation standing at 4.5%. However, the country is grappling with more pressing issues, as the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF), President William Ruto's flagship health programme, is facing significant challenges.
The SHIF, managed by the Social Health Authority (SHA), has been embroiled in a scandal, with allegations of financial losses and theft causing disruption. The extent of the theft is not fully known, but it has led to the suspension, shutdown, and blacklisting of hospitals.
Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has taken measures to address these issues, but the state's grip on the SHIF scheme is questionable. Some claim that the state may be involved in the theft or unable to control it.
The ongoing issues with SHIF have caused significant concern and scrutiny for the Kenyan government. Both President Ruto and Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale are facing pressure to address these financial issues and theft.
The dispute over the SHA payment issue has seen Moses Wetang'ula and Bishop Obanyi engaged in a public dispute. Meanwhile, the president involved in the leadership of the Social Health Insurance Fund in Nigeria is President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
In a separate matter, Nairobi MCAs have launched an impeachment bid against Governor Sakaja. Universities in Kenya, on the other hand, are reducing fees for freshers.
Elsewhere, the ongoing issues with the SHIF scheme have highlighted the urgent need for Kenya to avoid becoming a failed state. Despite the blunders, Ruto's key allies, including Murkomen, Chirchir, and Duale, continue to hold their positions.
In a positive development, a dairy project worth Sh451.5 million is set to boost the fortunes of smallholder farmers. Junior secondary teachers, meanwhile, are demanding autonomy from primary schools.
As Kenya navigates these challenges, it remains to be seen how the government will address the issues within the SHIF and ensure the well-being of its citizens.
