The government has enrolled 138,283 officers and their dependents from the National Police Service (NPS) and the Kenya Prisons Service (KPS) into the Social Health Authority (SHA), marking a significant expansion of access to comprehensive healthcare under the newly launched Usalama Cover.
The milestone was announced during the official rollout of the scheme under the Public Officers Medical Scheme Fund (POMSF). Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale described the development as a major step toward achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and reinforcing ongoing health sector reforms.
Duale said the country’s UHC agenda is now yielding tangible results, pointing to the registration of more than 30 million Kenyans under SHA and the processing of claims worth billions of shillings. He noted that these achievements demonstrate a system that is both operational and responsive to citizens’ needs.
The CS also highlighted the successful transition of over 400,000 teachers and their families to the Mwalimu Cover, noting that the same efficiency—enabled by digital systems and inter-agency coordination—is now being extended to uniformed officers.
Addressing longstanding concerns, Duale acknowledged the challenges officers previously faced under older insurance schemes, stating that the Usalama Cover represents a shift toward dignity, fairness, and comprehensive care. The scheme offers a full continuum of services, including primary healthcare, specialised treatment, and overseas referrals where necessary.
He emphasized that the government’s zero co-payment policy shifts the financial burden from patients to the system, while enhanced digital infrastructure—featuring track-and-trace capabilities—will improve accountability, efficiency, and fraud prevention.
Healthcare providers were urged to maintain high standards of integrity as the programme is implemented, supported by strengthened oversight mechanisms.
Interior and National Administration Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen said the achievement reflects sustained government commitment and effective collaboration among key institutions, including the Ministries of Health and Interior, the National Police Service, and the Social Health Authority.
A nationwide sensitisation campaign is set to accompany the rollout to ensure officers and their families fully understand and benefit from the scheme.
