How to register for SHA (Social Health Authority)

The Social Health Authority (SHA) replaced NHIF in October 2024. Every Kenyan resident is expected to register. Once registered and paying, you and your registered dependants can get covered treatment at SHA-contracted hospitals and clinics.

Register by phone (any phone)

1. Dial *147# on your phone.
2. Choose the option to register, and enter your ID number when asked.
3. Follow the prompts to confirm your details and add your household.
4. You'll get an SMS confirming your registration.

Register online

1. Go to afyayangu.go.ke (or the link on sha.go.ke) and choose to register as a member.
2. Enter your ID number and phone number, and confirm with the code sent to your phone.
3. Fill in your details and add your dependants: your spouse and children, using their ID or birth certificate numbers.
4. Answer the household questions if you're not employed. They are used to work out your contribution.

How much you pay

• Employed: your employer deducts the contribution from your salary (a percentage of your gross pay, with a minimum amount) and pays it for you.
• Not employed or self-employed: SHA works out an amount from the answers about your household, and you pay it yourself, usually through M-PESA. Your amount is shown when you finish registering or when you check your status.

Note: Contribution rates are set by law and can change. Check your amount on the SHA portal or by dialling *147# rather than relying on a figure someone sends you.

Check that you're covered

Dial *147# and choose the option to check your status, or log in online. Before treatment, ask the hospital whether it is contracted by SHA and what is covered. Hospitals usually confirm your cover with your ID number and a code sent to your phone.