The Social Health Authority (SHA) has outlined alternatives for Kenyans who cannot meet their Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) contributions, including instalment plans and full government subsidies for indigent households.

SHA senior officer Jacqueline Ngonyo explained that households fall into three groups: those who can pay the annual premium, those who use the Lipa Pole Pole instalment scheme, and those identified by the government as indigents who cannot afford any payment.

Formally employed workers contribute 2.75 percent of their gross salary through monthly payroll deductions, while informal and self‑employed Kenyans are assessed via means testing to determine affordable contribution levels.

Households that cannot afford even the Lipa Pole Pole instalments qualify as indigents – typically elderly persons, vulnerable children and poor families identified through government means testing – and receive fully subsidised SHA coverage.

Indigent Kenyans are entitled to free basic services at Level 1, 2 and 3 public and mission facilities under the Primary Health Fund, as well as coverage for emergencies, chronic and critical illnesses through the Emergency, Chronic and Critical Illness Fund, without needing active contributions.

To enrol in the Lipa Pole Pole scheme, applicants must register with SHA, complete means testing on the Afya Yangu portal, be registered with the Hustler Fund, have no defaults, and either pay the first four months upfront or clear any arrears.

Registration can be done via mobile by dialing *147# or *254#, selecting the Kenyan citizen option, entering the national ID, choosing “Make Payment”, opting for Lipa Pole Pole and linking to the Hustler Fund to view financing limits.