More than 500 residents from 100 households in Alwala Sub-location, West Seme ward, Kisumu County, have received fully paid Social Health Authority (SHA) cover for one year, courtesy of Rana Auto Selection Limited.
Speaking during the launch in Alwala on Wednesday, Rana Auto Selection Chief Executive Officer Sultan Rana said the firm was committed to walking with Kenyans during critical moments.
“We’ve been there for our people during health challenges and even floods. Today, as Team Rana, we are supporting 100 households, which translates to 500 people. Rana exists because of Kenyans, and we promise to always be there whenever called upon,” said Rana.
Kisumu’s SHA Registration Compliance Officer, Philip Odaga, praised the intervention, noting that the government’s target of universal health coverage required partnerships with the private sector.
“For us to attain universal health coverage, we must enroll all Kenyans. After enrollment, some will not be able to pay, and that’s why Rana has come in to help. Kisumu has already achieved an average of 54 percent enrollment, which translates to more than 5,000 residents under SHA care,” Odaga explained.
He urged those yet to register to do so, dismissing criticism against the scheme and stressing that SHA remains a lifeline for affordable healthcare.
Beneficiaries welcomed the sponsorship, terming it timely relief. John Oyugi Oketch, a resident, recalled being turned away at Kombewa Hospital after failing to produce either SHA proof or cash.
“I went to Kombewa Hospital, where I was asked if I had SHA cover or money. I had neither, so I was chased away. Today, I am glad that Rana has fully sponsored my health cover for one year, and I can finally access treatment with dignity,” he said.
