What William Ruto Plans to Launch To All Kenyans After Realising SHA Is Not Working

Kenyans will soon be able to access free ambulance services anywhere in the country, following an announcement by the Social Health Authority (SHA).

SHA Chief Executive Officer, Mercy Mwangangi, revealed that President William Ruto is expected to officially launch the programme before the end of September.

She said the government will also provide a toll-free number through which citizens can request an ambulance whenever an emergency arises.

Currently, ambulance services cost about Ksh4,500 per trip, a fee that locks out many low-income families from receiving timely medical attention.

Under the new plan, SHA will fully cover the cost. Patients will also receive free treatment for the first 24 hours after being admitted to a health facility.

“This initiative will ensure that no Kenyan fails to get emergency care because of cost. You will simply call the number, and an ambulance will be dispatched to your location,” Mwangangi explained.

She added that SHA will also cater for emergency cases such as asthma attacks, with the aim of saving lives and easing the financial burden on households.

The service will be part of the wider Universal Health Coverage (UHC) agenda and will work hand in hand with the new national health insurance scheme.

At the same time, the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) has directed all ambulance providers, paramedics, and emergency care workers to register with the council.

According to KMPDC CEO David Kariuki, the move will help streamline operations and ensure all ambulances meet national standards.

He explained that registration will also support the rollout of the SHA’s Emergency, Critical Care, and Chronic Illness Fund.

Application forms and detailed requirements for registration are available on the council’s website. Ambulance providers are expected to submit their applications either electronically or physically at KMPDC offices.