How to Register for SHIF in Kenya: A 2024 Step-By-Step Guide

Welcome to this comprehensive guide on how to register for the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) in Kenya. Launched on March 1, 2024, SHIF is a public health insurance program designed to replace the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) and provide better healthcare coverage for all Kenyan citizens.

Understanding the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF)

The Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) is a public initiative by the Kenyan government to ensure all citizens have access to affordable healthcare services. SHIF operates on a principle of resource pooling, allowing members to contribute to a shared fund, which is used to cover healthcare costs. This program covers a wide range of medical services, including outpatient and inpatient care, maternity services, and emergency treatment.

“SHIF aims to reduce the financial burden of medical expenses and promote preventive care, ultimately leading to healthier communities.” - Kenyan Ministry of Health

Eligibility for SHIF

To be eligible for SHIF membership, you must:

  • Be a Kenyan citizen or legal resident
  • Be over 18 years old
  • Have a valid national identification card (ID) or passport

There are two categories of SHIF membership:

Principal Member

The primary account holder, usually the main income earner in a household.

Dependents

Individuals covered under the principal member's SHIF account, typically including spouses and children.

Required Documents for SHIF Registration

To register for SHIF, you will need to provide the following documents:

  • National ID card or passport
  • Recent passport-sized photograph
  • Proof of income (e.g., payslip, bank statement, KRA PIN certificate)

If registering dependents, additional documents required are:

  • Proof of relationship (e.g., marriage certificate, birth certificate)
  • Photographs and identification documents for each dependent

How to Register for SHIF in Kenya: Step-by-Step Process

Registration for SHIF can be completed through three methods: USSD code, online portal, or in-person at designated registration centers.

Option 1: USSD Code Registration

  1. Dial *147# on your mobile phone.
  2. Enter your national identification number (ID) when prompted.
  3. Follow the prompts to enter your personal information, including name, date of birth, and contact information.

Option 2: Online Registration

  1. Visit the SHIF Website: Open a web browser and go to the Social Health Authority website. Click on the “Register” button at the top of the page.
  2. Create an Account: On the registration page, fill in your personal information and click “Proceed”. An OTP will be sent to your registered phone number; enter it to verify your account.
  3. Complete Registration: Follow the instructions to upload necessary documents and complete the registration.
  4. Update Your Information: Log in to your account to update personal details and set up your PIN.

Option 3: In-Person Registration

  1. Locate the nearest SHIF agent.
  2. Visit the agent’s office and fill out the registration form with the required documents.
  3. Confirm your registration details with the agent before leaving.

Post-Registration: Managing Your SHIF Account

Action Details
Updating Personal Information Log into your Afyangu account using your ID number and PIN, then click on “My Profile” to update your information.
Adding or Removing Dependents Use the “Dependants” option in your account dashboard to manage dependents.
Checking Contribution Status View your contribution status and history by clicking “Overview” in your Afyangu account dashboard.

Next Steps: Enjoying the Benefits of SHIF

Once registered, you can access various healthcare services at designated health facilities across Kenya. Ensure that you make your monthly contributions on time to avoid disruptions in service. For assistance, contact the SHIF customer care center.

Together, let’s improve access to quality healthcare for all Kenyans through the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF).