With just four weeks left before their current medical insurance contract lapses, Kenyan teachers are demanding full transparency from the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) regarding their move to the Social Health Authority (SHA).
Union officials accuse TSC of acting unilaterally and keeping teachers in the dark about the terms, benefits, and timelines of the new medical arrangement. “We have not received official documents detailing how the SHA will handle medical emergencies, specialized treatment, or maternity benefits,” said one KNUT regional chair.
Teachers are particularly worried about how the new system will handle dependents and retirees. Under Minet, members enjoyed family coverage and easy access to private hospitals — privileges that might be curtailed under the new state-run plan.
SHA’s introduction follows the government’s dissolution of the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) earlier this year. The new agency aims to streamline coverage for all Kenyans, but rollout challenges have persisted.
The Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU) has also raised red flags, urging the government to fix underlying health system gaps before onboarding new members.
As teachers prepare for the next phase, union leaders warn that any disruption to medical services could trigger industrial action. “Healthcare is not a luxury — it’s a right. Teachers will not be forced into a plan that reduces their dignity,” warned Misori.
