NHIF sets 25 million new members target by 2016

The National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) has launched a massive drive to recruit 25 million Kenyans in the informal sectors for its medical insurance products within the next two years.

NHIF Board chairman Mohamud Ali revealed yesterday that they were opening new offices in far-flung parts of the country as part of the strategy to win new members.

"We are increasing our footprint across the country by opening additional offices where we have had no presence. This will enable us recruit more members and take services closer to the market," said Mr Ali.

He said 98 per cent of Kenyans in formal employment had joined NHIF. The next target is millions of Kenyans in the informal sector, including jua kali, hawkers and matatu personnel who need medical insurance but may not be aware of the benefits.

NHIF currently has 4.9 million registered members but its services reach 16 million as family members are also included in the cover.