Mombasa Governor calls for accountability in managing Social Health Insurance Fund

Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Sherrif Nassir has urged the national government to ensure transparency and integrity in administering the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF).

Speaking during the launch of the County Driving Programme on Saturday at the Mama Ngina Waterfront, he warned that any mismanagement could erode public trust and compromise the fund’s objectives.

Governor Abdulswamad Sherrif Nassir called on residents to register for the SHIF, highlighting its potential to transform healthcare access and drive Kenya closer to achieving universal health coverage.

However, he emphasised that success hinges on efficient management and accountability.

“This initiative has the power to revolutionise healthcare for all Kenyans. But without proper governance, public confidence will wane, and its impact will be diminished,” he said.

The Social Health Insurance Fund is a government-led initiative designed to provide affordable healthcare to all Kenyans, particularly marginalised communities.

Governor Nassir stressed that inclusivity and efficiency are key to ensuring its success. He also called for mechanisms to prevent corruption and bureaucracy from hindering its implementation.

Employment opportunities

The County Driving Programme, launched alongside the Governor’s address, is set to benefit 4,000 young people by equipping them with driving skills and certification.

This initiative aims to create employment opportunities in the transport and logistics sectors, aligning with the County Government’s broader youth empowerment strategy.

Mombasa Governor Abdullswamad Nassir cautions the national government to prioritise transparency and efficiency in managing SHIF.

Nassir added that SHIF mismanagement could erode public confidence and hinder the fund’s transformative potential.

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“The youth are the cornerstone of our County’s development. Through this programme, we are giving them the tools to build sustainable careers,” said Governor Nassir.

He noted that the skills acquired through the programme could unlock opportunities in ride-hailing services, logistics, and other sectors dependent on transport.

Mombasa Speaker Aharub Khatri highlighted the importance of collaboration between the County Assembly and the Executive, stressing that such partnerships are critical to implementing impactful initiatives.

“The County Assembly is committed to supporting programmes that empower our youth and improve access to essential services like healthcare. Together, we can achieve transformative development for our people,” he stated.

Likoni MP Mishi Mboko lauded the Governor’s commitment to youth development, noting that the driving programme could alleviate unemployment among young people. “This initiative is timely and necessary. It opens up opportunities for our youth to thrive in an increasingly competitive job market,” she said.

Mombasa Women Representative Zamzam Mohamed echoed these sentiments, highlighting the importance of empowering marginalised groups through innovative programmes. “By investing in our young people, we are investing in the future of Mombasa,” she remarked.

Mombasa residents expressed optimism about the initiatives, seeing them as steps towards addressing pressing challenges.

“The driving programme gives our youth a chance to secure jobs, while the health fund offers hope for better medical care. These are the kind of changes we need,” Salim Mwinyi, a Likoni resident, said.

Fatuma Ali, a mother of three from Kisauni, praised the health fund for its focus on affordability.

“Many families like mine struggle to afford hospital bills. If this fund works as promised, it will bring us much-needed relief,” she said.

James Otieno, a boda boda rider in Changamwe, welcomed the County Driving Programme, saying it would create economic opportunities. “Many of us struggle to get driving licences because of the cost. This programme will help us get certified and even open doors for better-paying jobs,” Otieno said.