Khalwale seeks urgent answers over the future of former NHIF employees at SHA

Senate Planery
Tuesday, 27th May 2025

Kakamega Senator Dr. Boni Khalwale has demanded urgent clarity from the Senate Committee on Health regarding employment uncertainty facing former National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) staff at the Social Health Authority (SHA).

Senator Khalwale, rising to request a statement in Senate chamber, highlighted that former NHIF employees received letters from the Public Service Commission dated November 21, 2024, informing them of temporary deployment terms lasting six months, ending May 22, 2025. According to Khalwale, the abrupt expiry of these contracts caused "a lot of anxiety, panic, and confusion" among staff.

He is now pressing the Committee to disclose "the total number of staff SHA plans to recruit" and confirm if recruitment will be exclusively from former NHIF employees. Additionally, Khalwale wants transparency regarding the "approved exit package" available to employees not reappointed but opting to retire.

Additionally, he requested comprehensive details about redeployment plans for those not selected by SHA but willing to continue in public service, including specifics of positions available and whether current employment terms will be maintained.

Khalwale emphasized that immediate answers are necessary to alleviate employee uncertainty and ensure fairness in the transition process.