The Kenya Primary School Heads Association (KEPSHA) and the Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT), Makueni branch, have strongly opposed the move to transfer teachers to the Social Health Authority (SHA) medical insurance scheme from the current Minet medical cover.
KNUT Secretary General Benson Ndambuki issued a stern warning to the government, saying teachers will stage a nationwide strike if they are forced to join SHA.
“Health matters should not be joked about—it is a matter of life and death, and we do not want to be forced into anything we don’t agree with. I urge teachers to prepare themselves. In case we are moved to SHA, we shall have a nationwide strike, and we won’t be responsible for the consequences,” said Ndambuki.
During the KEPSHA Annual Delegates Conference, headteachers from across the country revealed that they have not been adequately informed about the SHA insurance scheme, nor have they been involved in the decision-making process.
Elisha Mwachizi, KNUT Treasurer, Kwale branch, said that SHA should demonstrate transparency and prove that its services are superior to those of Minet.
“We have not been told much about it. If teachers are already complaining about the current system, what will happen to us if SHA takes over? Our biggest concern is uncertainty about compensation and the comprehensiveness of the cover, which both our association and KNUT leadership know little about,” said Sarah Muhonja, headteacher at Zimbalo Primary School in Vihiga County.
This follows allegations that the Teachers Service Commission (TSC), in collaboration with some union leaders, signed the agreement without consulting members. TSC Acting CEO Evaleen Mitei announced that teachers will be covered under SHA starting December 1, 2025.
“We have agreed to transition to SHA, and we are working towards a seamless transfer of our teachers to the new medical scheme,” said Mitei.
Akello Misori, Secretary General of the Kenya Union of Post-Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET), defended the SHA cover, saying it offers comprehensive benefits including inpatient and outpatient services, dental care, annual medical checkups, chronic illness management, and overseas treatment.
“This is a comprehensive cover that goes beyond dispensaries and sub-county hospitals—it can also cater for overseas treatment,” Misori stated.
Meanwhile, Collins Oyuu, KNUT Secretary General, said the union thoroughly reviewed the terms before signing the deal and will withdraw if it proves unfavorable to members.
“I want to assure our members that this scheme has a clear cancellation clause, which allows for a 30-day notice and termination within three months. Let us not be worried,” said Oyuu.
SHA CEO Dr. Mercy Mwangangi assured teachers that the authority is committed to improving their health package, including access to Level 6 hospitals through fixed-base operator partnerships.
– By Timon Otieno
Email your news TIPS to Editor@nairobilawmonthly.com, and to advertise with us, call +254715061658 anytime of the day
