The Social Health Authority (SHA) has explained why the monthly payment option for unemployed Kenyans was removed.
Currently, there is only an annual payment option in the “Pay for Self” category for unemployed Kenyans.
Speaking to The Kenya Times on Thursday, July 3, 2025, SHA Chairman Abdi Mohamed stated that the monthly option was scrapped because it was a temporary measure.
“The monthly payment option was a stopgap measure. The law requires one to pay annually. Therefore, we are implementing the law as is,” noted the Chairman.
SHA CEO Explains Why Monthly Payment was Removed
When asked if the government could revert to the monthly payment option, the Chairman responded by saying, “For now, the payment is annual, like all insurance premiums are paid.”
Also Read: Duale Denies Claims That Hustler Fund Defaulters Risk Losing SHA Benefits
At the same time, the SHA Chairman said the recently introduced Lipa Pole Pole payment option can be used as an alternative by people who cannot afford the annual payment, noting that there is no limit to how much you can borrow, and no interest is charged.
“Lipa Pole Pole is for people who can’t afford to pay the entire annual amount at once.
If you can’t afford it, then you can subscribe to the Lipa Pole Pole option. There is no limit to how much you can borrow, and no interest,” the CEO added.
Kenyans React to Monthly Payment Removal
The explanation for removing the monthly payment option comes amid complaints from several Kenyans, who say that they cannot afford the annual fee.
Social media influencer Mercy Masai in June 2025, raised concerns about the removal of the monthly payment option, saying it would be unfair to ordinary citizens to spark public debate.
“Wametoa option ya kulipa SHA monthly, you have to pay for a whole year… Honestly, how do you expect a common mwananchi to afford this?” Mercy Masai posted.
“How gullible are some people here though… So you all suppose it’s okay for SHA not to be paid monthly but believe they will have Lipa Pole Pole for the annual option.”
Another X user named Joseph Kimonyi said, “And for your info, the SHA Lipa Pole Pole is pegged on you borrowing from the Hustler Fund. So, imagine having a Hustler Loan limit of 500/-, how will you Lipa Pole Pole?”
Also Read: Headache for Kenyans Over SHA Lipa Polepole Days After Ruto’s Announcement
Medical Services PS Dr. Ouma Oluga, who spoke during the launch of the SHA mass registration campaign in Migori County on June 27, 2025, described the Lipa Pole Pole payment option as a transformative initiative to make healthcare accessible for Kenyans, especially those in the informal sector with irregular incomes.
He emphasized that the program allows Kenyans to pay their SHA health insurance premiums in flexible, manageable installments—daily, weekly, or monthly—based on their financial capacity.
He highlighted that this model ensures no one is excluded from healthcare access due to financial constraints.
How to Access Lipa Pole Pole Payment Option
Registration:
- Dial 147# on your mobile phone.
- Choose your category (e.g., Kenyan Citizen, Resident, Refugee).
- Enter your ID number when prompted.
- You’ll then be registered for SHA and can proceed to payment.
How to Start Paying via Lipa Pole Pole:
- After dialing *147#, select “Make Payment” and click “Lipa Pole Pole”.
- Select your financier, such as the Hustler Fund, to assist in managing your payments.
- Pick a repayment frequency: daily, weekly, or monthly.
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….workers who are employed pay monthly. Those not employed pay annually ….if there is another definition of discrimination let’s have it….