Gov't to review Taifa Care contribution formula after public outcry

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki on Saturday said the Ruto administration is a listening government and has heard pleas by citizens to make Taifa Care's monthly payments favourable to them. 

"Taifa Care registration is free. We will re-look at the Means Testing Tool for Taifa Care to make sure all Kenyans, including boda boda riders, are not disadvantaged in monthly contributions," said Prof. Kindiki.

He spoke when he graced the Embu County Boda Boda Summit held at Runyenjes DCC Grounds in Runyenjes town. 

"Because we are listening government, we will adjust the means testing mechanism to ensure the people of Kenya are comfortable with the contributions and the services offered by the government," the Deputy President added. 

So far, 18.5 million Kenyans have registered under SHA, a significant raise from the total number that was under NHIF. 

The DP said efforts are being intensified to increase the number so that all eligible Kenyans are captured in the system. 

"SHA registration has been received very well by Kenyans. We are keen on pushing up the numbers to ensure every Kenyan is covered by Taifa Care," he noted. 

With the economy recovering following interventions by President Ruto, the DP said it was time to focus on improving the lives of all Kenyans.

"We are not interested in supremacy battles or fights over who is popular or not. Our focus now is on development. Time for campaigns will come," he said. 

The DP promised that the administration will revive all the stalled projects in Embu including roads, water, electricity, dairy among others that are crucial for the county's development.  

The Boda Boda Summit was the first bringing together over 10, 000 riders in Embu and focused on bettering their incomes and operations within the County. 

The Deputy President also launched the Embu Boda Boda Strategic Plan 2024 -2027, which is a roadmap for the sector growth and regulation. 

He also launched the Embu Boda Boda Riders Information Management System, a county-wide database to track and manage boda boda operators' information. 

Further, the Deputy President said the government is putting in place friendly policies to improve their earnings and for all Kenyans. 

"I encourage Boda Boda riders to join Saccos to be in a better position to improve their lives. I appeal to the other governors to emulate Governor Mbarire and make sure boda boda riders in their counties form saccos for their benefit," he said. 

The Deputy President also praised Governor Cecily Mbarire for her leadership in taking the county forward. 

The Governor said they will work closely with the Ruto's administration to better the fortunes of the riders and the county residents