Diaspora Families to Benefit from Kenya’s SHA-Funded Overseas Treatment Plan

Kenya will begin funding specialised medical treatment abroad from 14 April 2026 for patients whose conditions cannot be managed locally, under a new policy announced by the Social Health Authority (SHA).

The SHA, led by Chief Executive Officer Dr Mercy Mwangangi, has identified 36 advanced procedures that are not currently available in the country. These include paediatric liver and kidney transplants, bone marrow transplants for blood cancers, and therapies such as proton treatment. Procedures already established in Kenya, including adult kidney transplants and joint replacements, are excluded in order to support and maintain local medical capacity.

Funding for the programme is capped at 500,000 shillings per patient each year and applies only to medical expenses. Patients and their families will be responsible for travel and accommodation costs. 

The government has contracted nine hospitals in India, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia to deliver the services. Referrals will be managed through a controlled system overseen by the SHA Claims Management Office and approved by the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council. Patients will not be allowed to seek treatment independently and request reimbursement later.

The policy is expected to ease the financial pressure on Kenyans living abroad who often support relatives during medical emergencies. By providing structured access to specialised care, the programme reduces reliance on fundraising efforts and offers greater certainty about treatment arrangements. 

Foreign hospitals involved in the scheme will also work with local providers to ensure continuity of care after patients return to Kenya.