The Social Health Authority (SHA) has raised a serious warning over a rising scam targeting Kenyans, alerting the public to fraudsters impersonating its staff and demanding payments for fake registration or expedited services.
In a statement released on Friday, SHA said it was “deeply saddened and concerned” by reports that some individuals had lost money to criminals claiming to represent the Authority. The fraudsters allegedly promise to assist with registration or fast-track access to services in exchange for cash.
This alert comes after media reports highlighted cases of scammers dressed in uniforms resembling government attire, presenting fake official documents, and collecting sensitive personal information.
Some victims reported that their M-Pesa and M-Shwari accounts were accessed illegally, with funds withdrawn within hours.
“We are deeply saddened and concerned to learn that some members of the public have been defrauded by criminals impersonating SHA employees,” the Authority said. “Your trust is sacred to us, and it pains us greatly that dishonest individuals would exploit that trust for their own gain.”
SHA Chief Executive Officer Dr. Mercy Mwangangi reassured the public that all services offered by the Authority are free of charge. She emphasized that no employee is authorized to request payments or personal financial details.
“Please know that SHA staff will never ask for money to offer service, or your M-Pesa PIN,” she said. “If you or someone you know has been affected, we urge you to report the incident immediately to the police and to SHA through our official toll-free line 147 or the dedicated email [email protected].”
The Authority reminded Kenyans that registration can be completed at no cost via the USSD code *147#, or through official websites www.afyayangu.go.ke and www.sha.go.ke.
For those seeking in-person assistance, services are offered at SHA county offices, Huduma Centres, or through Community Health Promoters identifiable by their branded vests.
SHA further clarified that contributions should only be made through official channels, including the M-Pesa Business Number 200222 or designated banks. Any payment requested outside these official channels should be considered fraudulent.
“Your safety, dignity, and confidence in our healthcare system matter deeply to us,” Dr. Mwangangi said. “Together, we will protect our communities from these malicious acts.”
The Authority urged the public to report any suspicious persons or incidents to the nearest police station or directly to SHA via [email protected], [email protected], or [email protected].
SHA concluded by reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding Kenyans from scams and ensuring that social health insurance remains accessible, safe, and transparent.
“We remain committed to protecting all Kenyans and ensuring that access to social health insurance services is transparent, safe, and free from fraud,” the Authority said.
