The Social Health Authority (SHA) is established under Section 25 of the Act and is responsible for pooling all contributions made under the Act.
SHA is designed to provide healthcare services through empanelled and contracted healthcare providers and facilities, based on referrals from primary health facilities.
The Authority, which replaced the defunct National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF), ensures that every resident in Kenya has access to a comprehensive range of quality healthcare services, including preventive, promotive, curative, rehabilitative, and palliative care.
This also covers emergency services and critical care beyond what is included in the Essential Healthcare Benefits Package, as well as the treatment and management of chronic illnesses not covered by the standard package.
These services are delivered at Level 4, 5, and 6 health facilities under the SHA fund. Every person residing in Kenya is required to register with the Authority as a member.
The application must be accompanied by a copy of a national identification document or another approved form of ID. For children without identification, documentation provided by the State Department responsible for social protection is required.
You can apply for SHA membership online via the official website sha.go.ke or by dialling the USSD code *147# on your mobile phone.
Also Read: EXPLAINED: Circumstances When SHA Cannot Cover Your Treatment Abroad
Primary registration is conducted through the SHA or Afya Yangu portal at afyayangu.go.ke. Applicants will need to provide personal details, including their National ID, passport-size photo, and information related to employment or income.
SHA online registration
This method is completed using the official SHA portal.
- Visit the website: Go to the SHA website or the Afya Yangu portal at https://afyayangu.go.ke/ or www.sha.go.ke.
- Start registration: Find the option to create an account or register and agree to the terms and conditions.
- Enter your details: Provide your ID number and a valid phone number. You will receive a One-Time Password (OTP) via SMS to verify your number.
- Create your account: Create a 4-digit PIN for your account. You will also be prompted to create a digital signature. Upload a recent passport-size photo and a copy of your National ID card.
- Fill out your profile: Complete your personal and contact information, including your county and sub-county, and details about your employment or income.
- Add dependents (optional): If you are enrolling your family, you will need to add them as beneficiaries, providing their ID or birth certificate number.
- Complete a Means Test: If you are self-employed or unemployed, you must complete a means test to determine your contribution amount.
- Make your first payment: Pay your premium via M-Pesa. The SHA Paybill number is 200222, with your ID number as the account number.
- Receive confirmation: Once your payment is received, your registration will be confirmed.
Also Read: SHA CEO Suspends 45 Hospitals with Immediate Effect (FULL LIST)
USSD mobile registration
This method allows you to register using your mobile phone without needing an internet connection.
- Dial *147# on your phone.
- Select your option: Choose “Option 1” for Kenyan citizens or “Option 2” for foreign residents.
- Enter your ID number and follow the subsequent prompts to provide your details.
- Complete your registration and receive a confirmation message.
In-person registration
For those who prefer assistance, you can register in person at a designated center.
- Find a center: Visit any SHA branch or Huduma Centre near you.
- Fill out the form: Complete the registration form with the help of a representative.
- Provide documents: Submit a copy of your National ID and passport photos. For family enrollment, you will also need copies of your spouse’s ID and your children’s birth certificates.
- Submit and confirm: Once your documents are processed, you will be registered with the SHA.
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