Nominated Senator Crystal Asige has raised serious concerns about the Social Health Authority (SHA) after reports emerged that a 28-year-old adult with severe disabilities in Trans Nzoia County was denied continued coverage under a parent’s plan and was told to enroll independently.
The incident, shared widely on X on February 27, 2026, has highlighted growing challenges faced by adults with lifelong disabilities across Kenya.
In her statement, Asige linked this case to increasing complaints from families whose adult children with permanent disabilities are struggling to access healthcare under the SHA.
She stressed that the issue is not just about age but about ongoing support needs. “disability is about ability, not age,” she said, emphasizing that many adults rely on caregivers for daily activities, health decisions, and access to medical services. She warned that enforcing a strict age cutoff at 18 could ignore the realities of lifelong disability and risk violating individuals’ rights.
Pointing to the Persons with Disabilities Act, 2025, Asige noted that the law guarantees persons with disabilities access to the highest standard of health without discrimination.
It explicitly provides that they “shall be entitled to free medical care and treatment in public health institutions” and requires health services to cater to their specific needs.
She urged the Ministry of Health to ensure policies reflect both these legal requirements and the actual experiences of families caring for adults with severe disabilities.
Current SHA rules allow dependents such as children and spouses to be covered only up to certain ages. However, the regulations also permit adults with disabilities who are fully dependent on a contributor to be included without any age limit, provided supporting documentation is submitted.
Despite this, Asige said inconsistencies in enforcement are leaving some adults excluded from essential care, fueling confusion and concern among families.
The Trans Nzoia case has renewed calls for a review of the SHA’s implementation to ensure it aligns with national disability rights protections. Launched to broaden access to healthcare, the scheme has faced criticism for unclear application of rules affecting adults with lifelong disabilities.
Asige called for swift action, stressing that Kenya cannot afford to fail people with disabilities. “Kenya cannot fail its people with disabilities. We must uphold their rights without delays or arbitrary decision-making,” she said.
Her statement is expected to intensify demands for clear guidance, improved coordination between the Ministry of Health and SHA officials, and stronger oversight to guarantee that all persons with disabilities can access vital healthcare services.
