A section of Kenyans is raising concerns over the recently introduced Lipa Pole Pole model by the Social Health Authority (SHA). This new payment plan, unveiled in June, has sparked debate, especially about its integration with the Financial Inclusion Fund, popularly referred to as the Hustler Fund. Under this system, self-employed Kenyans are required to settle their annual subscription to SHA through a lump sum payment, often facilitated by a Hustler Fund loan.
The transition from the monthly Ksh.750 payment model to a single Ksh.5,250 lump sum has left many Kenyans grappling with financial strain. The decision to link SHA’s contributions to the Hustler Fund has been met with mixed reactions, with critics pointing to the added burden of loans being thrust onto already overtaxed citizens.
Frustration Among Kenyans
Lawrence Okumu, a boda boda rider, expressed frustration over his inability to meet the new payment requirements. Having struggled with the monthly Ksh.750 contributions, the demand for a Ksh.5,250 lump sum payment came as a shock. “Hustler Fund inaniambia I am supposed to pay Ksh.12,375 per year na nikiangalia difference juu saa hii nalipa Ksh.9,000 every year…sasa difference Ksh.3,375. Sasa as a common mwananchi siwezi afford kupata hiyo pesa within one day,” he lamented.
George Martin, a driver, voiced similar concerns, questioning the rationale behind the sudden shift. “Kama Ksh.600 ndio ilinishinda kulipa, what about hiyo Ksh.3,600? Afadhali wawache tu watu walipe vile walikuwanga wanalipa kitambo,” he added.
Integration with Hustler Fund
During his Madaraka Day address, President William Ruto highlighted the rationale behind the integration. The new model aims to streamline SHA payments. While leveraging the Hustler Fund to offer Kenyans flexible repayment options for those unable to pay upfront. These loans can be repaid daily, weekly, or monthly, offering some flexibility.
Despite this, the transition has not been seamless. Critics argue that the move forces Kenyans into debt without addressing their financial realities. Lawrence Opondo, a Kisumu resident, noted, “Hii loan unatupea kama hapo nyuma ndio hujatupea loan inatosha hiyo kiwango. Sasa saa hii, hii pesa unatoa wapi ya kutuongeza loan tu mara moja?”
Josiah Otieno, a tout, echoed these sentiments. “Heri tu nijisort na hii yangu kidogo yenye napata. Ata kama ni ten, naweza sunda ata 5 bob ingine nikijua hii ni ya matibabu,” he stated.
Growing Participation
Despite the criticism, the State House reports that 23.3 million Kenyans have registered for SHA, with 2,946 enrolled in the Lipa Pole Pole programme. Proponents of the new model argue that it promotes financial discipline and ensures consistent contributions to the health fund.
However, this shift also raises questions about the sustainability and inclusivity of the model. Many fear that forcing citizens to rely on loans for essential health services could exacerbate financial inequality and deter enrollment.
Read: Beware of Fake SHA Job Adverts
A Call for Flexibility
Kenyans have called on the government to reconsider the rigid payment structure. They suggest reintroducing monthly contributions to accommodate diverse financial capabilities. “Hii lump sum payment ni mzigo kubwa sana kwa wengi. Tunahitaji njia ambayo kila mtu anaweza afford,” a Nairobi resident remarked.
Implications for the Future
The Lipa Pole Pole model highlights broader issues surrounding healthcare financing in Kenya. While the integration with the Hustler Fund aims to address funding gaps, its execution has exposed underlying flaws in accessibility and affordability. Policymakers must consider these challenges. This will ensure that universal health coverage remains a reality for all Kenyans, not just a privileged few.
Conclusion
The Lipa Pole Pole model under SHA has sparked nationwide debate. While its intentions may align with improving health financing, the financial strain on Kenyans calls for a re-evaluation of its implementation. As discussions continue, the voices of citizens like Lawrence Okumu and George Martin underscore the need for a more inclusive and practical approach to healthcare contributions in Kenya.
