Health CS Barasa fires Nakhumicha appointee in ministry changes

Gebson was appointed to the Board by former Health CS Wafula Nakhumicha for a period of three years, with the appointment taking effect on January 26, 2024. 

CS Barasa has, however, replaced her six months after her appointment.  

In her place, the CS appointed Gerald Macharia to serve for three years, with effect from August 30, 2024.

"In exercise of the powers conferred by section 7 (1) (f) of the Social Health Insurance Act, the Cabinet Secretary for Health appoints Gerald Macharia to be a member of the Board of Directors of the Social Health Authority, for a period of three (3) years, with effect from the 30th August, 2024. The appointment of Linda Murugi Gebson is revoked," read the gazette notice. 

This marks Barasa's first move to implement changes within the ministry, less than three weeks after her taking over office.

She took over the mantle from Nakhumicha at a time when the health sector in the country was on the spotlight.

One of the major hurdles for the CS will be to ensure a successful transition from the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) to the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) which is yet to kick off following multiple legal hurdles. 

The SHIF is part of President Ruto's key legacy projects as he seeks to implement the Universal Health Coverage.

The former CS employed Community Health Promoters to steer the agenda forward, but questions have since been raised on its sustainability.