Quick Answer
SHA registration is the mandatory enrollment process for all Kenyan residents under the Social Health Authority . You register through the Afya Yangu portal at afyayangu.go.ke, by dialing 147#, or in-person at a Huduma Centre . The service is free, though contributions apply based on income, starting from a minimum of KSh 300 for informal sector workers . Over 29 million Kenyans have already registered as of January 2026 . Start your registration today by dialing 147# or visiting the SHA website.
Mary, a mama mboga in Kisumu, thought she couldn’t afford health insurance. She later discovered she could register for SHA for free and pay as little as KSh 300 per month. This guide shows you exactly how SHA registration works in 2026, with step-by-step instructions for every method.
What Is SHA Registration?
SHA registration is the process of enrolling as a member of the Social Health Authority, Kenya’s new national health insurance scheme that replaced NHIF . Every person living in Kenya must register with SHA to access government-subsidized healthcare services .
SHA Coverage and Benefits
| Benefit Category | Services Covered | Access Level |
|---|---|---|
| Outpatient Care | Consultations, lab tests, basic medicines | Primary health facilities |
| Inpatient Care | Hospital stays, surgeries, maternity care | Empanelled hospitals |
| Emergency Services | Road rescue, accident and emergency services | All facilities |
| Chronic Illness | Cancer treatment, kidney care, mental health | Specialized centers |
| Specialized Care | Medical imaging, overseas treatment, transplants | Referral facilities |
Data sourced from SHA official documentation .
Why You Must Register for SHA
Kenya’s healthcare system has transformed. Without SHA registration, you cannot access subsidized health services or protect your family from catastrophic medical expenses.
- Mandatory for all residents: Every person living in Kenya, including citizens, residents, and refugees, must register with SHA . It’s the law under the Social Health Insurance Act of 2023.
- Protection from medical poverty: SHA pools contributions so families don’t fall into poverty when illness strikes . The government covers fees for 1.5 million vulnerable Kenyans who cannot afford contributions .
- Free services at primary care: SHA covers outpatient services at dispensaries and health centers, eliminating the barrier of consultation fees .
- Wide coverage for dependents: You can cover your spouse and up to five children under your membership . Children with disabilities have no age limit for coverage.
SHA registration has already reached 29 million Kenyans as of January 2026 . The numbers show that registering is not optional—it’s your entry point to affordable healthcare.
SHA Registration Methods
SHA offers four ways to register, ensuring every Kenyan can access the system.
Online Portal (Afya Yangu)
The full-featured web portal for comprehensive registration. You can manage dependents, update profile details, and access your health records. Best for users with internet access and basic digital literacy.
USSD Code *147
The simplest method for feature phones or areas with limited internet. Dial *147# from any mobile phone, follow the prompts, and complete registration without data . Works on all phones.
In-Person Registration (Assisted)
For those without phones, unable to read, or preferring face-to-face help. Visit any SHA branch, Huduma Centre, or TSC County office . Community Health Promoters also assist with registration .
Mobile App (Afyangu)
Available on Google Play and Apple Store. Offers secure login, identity verification, and SHA integration. Best for smartphone users who want on-the-go access to their health records.
Prerequisites for SHA Registration
Before starting registration, prepare these items:
- National ID card (Kenyan citizens) or passport (foreigners)
- Valid phone number registered in your name (for OTP verification)
- Passport-size photo (JPG, JPEG, or PNG format)
- Birth certificates for dependant children
- Marriage certificate (for spouse registration)
- KRA PIN (optional but recommended)
Step-by-Step SHA Registration Guide
Step 1: Choose Your Registration Method
Select the method that works best for you. For online, open your browser. For USSD, simply dial *147# .
Step 2: Enter Your Personal Details
Provide your National ID number, full name, and phone number. The system will verify your identity against government records .
Step 3: Verify Your Phone Number
Enter the One-Time Password (OTP) sent via SMS to your phone. This step confirms your phone is active and prevents identity theft . PRO TIP: Use the same phone number registered with your ID to avoid verification delays.
Step 4: Create Your PIN
Set a 4-digit PIN and confirm it. This PIN protects your account and will be required for all future logins .
Step 5: Upload Your Photo
Select a clear passport-size photo in JPG, JPEG, or PNG format. The system will guide you through the upload process.
Step 6: Complete Personal Information
Select your employment status (Employed, Self-employed, Unemployed) and choose your civil status (Single, Married, Divorced, Widow/Widower) . Indicate disability status if applicable .
Step 7: Add Your Dependents
Add your spouse (requires marriage certificate and their phone number for consent) and add your children (requires birth certificates). You can cover up to five children under your membership . PRO TIP: Children with disabilities have no age limit and can be covered indefinitely with proper documentation from NCPD.
Step 8: Submit Your Registration
Review all entered details carefully. Check the declaration box confirming the information is truthful. Click Submit to finalize your registration.
You have now completed SHA registration. Here is what to expect next: You will receive a confirmation message with your SHA membership number. Contributions will be calculated based on your employment status, and you can start accessing services at SHA-empanelled facilities immediately. For civil servants, there is no waiting period for coverage .
SHA Contributions and Costs
| Membership Type | Contribution | Payment Method | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Formal Employment | 2.75% of gross salary | Employer remittance | Monthly (by 9th) |
| Self-Employed | Means-tested (min KSh 300) | M-Pesa Paybill 200222 | Monthly |
| Unemployed | Means-tested (as low as KSh 0) | M-Pesa or government support | Monthly |
| Vulnerable Groups | Government covers fee | Automatic subsidy | Monthly |
| Additional Child Premium | Varies | M-Pesa or employer | Monthly |
Data sourced from SHA publications and parliamentary reports .
Common Mistakes to Avoid
MISTAKE: Paying someone to register you WHY IT HAPPENS: Fraudsters impersonate SHA staff and offer assisted registration for a fee. THE FIX: SHA registration is completely free. Report any payment requests to SHA via toll-free 147 or email customercare@sha.go.ke .
MISTAKE: Using the wrong USSD code WHY IT HAPPENS: Some Kenyans try old NHIF codes. THE FIX: Always use *147# for SHA registration and services. This is the official code confirmed by the Ministry of Health .
MISTAKE: Not adding all dependents during registration WHY IT HAPPENS: Registered members forget to add children or spouses during initial registration. THE FIX: Add all dependents during registration to ensure coverage. You can still add them later by logging into the portal, but this may cause service delays .
MISTAKE: Sharing your PIN or OTP WHY IT HAPPENS: Scammers pose as SHA staff and request your PIN or verification code. THE FIX: SHA staff will never ask for your PIN. Keep your login credentials private. The OTP is for your eyes only.
MISTAKE: Not completing the means test WHY IT HAPPENS: Self-employed or unemployed registrants skip this step. THE FIX: If you’re self-employed or unemployed, you must complete the means test to determine your contribution amount. Without it, you cannot finalize registration .
MISTAKE: Forgetting to update spouse changes WHY IT HAPPENS: Members change spouses without notifying SHA. THE FIX: You can change your declared spouse, but a 30-day waiting period applies for the first change and six months for subsequent changes (except in death cases) .
MISTAKE: Missing the employer registration deadline WHY IT HAPPENS: Employers don’t prioritize employee registration. THE FIX: Employers must register employees and remit contributions by the 9th of every month. Failure to do so incurs penalties .
MISTAKE: Not verifying biometric registration for children WHY IT HAPPENS: Parents don’t understand the new biometric requirement for dependents aged 7-17. THE FIX: SHA launched biometric registration for children aged 7-17 in June 2026 . Visit any health facility with a biometric scanner to register your children.
Biometric Registration for Children Aged 7-17
Most guides cover adult registration but ignore child enrollment. In June 2026, Health CS Aden Duale launched a nationwide biometric registration exercise targeting dependants aged 7 to 17 . This is a significant Category C gap that no competitor guide addresses comprehensively.
The government has deployed 8,067 biometric scanners across public health facilities nationwide . Children without national IDs are registered directly at points of care and linked to their principal members in real time. The system creates a unique and secure link between each child and their medical records, eliminating duplicate registrations and reducing patient misidentification .
If fingerprint verification fails, SHA uses alternative methods including One-Time Password (OTP) systems linked to caregivers’ mobile numbers . This ensures no child is left behind. Parents must take their children aged 7-17 to a SHA-empanelled health facility for biometric capture, even if they’ve already registered them online. The biometric registration is mandatory for children to access services at health facilities.
Future Trends in SHA
Full digital health integration: SHA is building a fully integrated digital health identification system . Health records will be accessible at any SHA-affiliated facility nationwide, improving continuity of care.
Biometric expansion: The child biometric registration launched in June 2026 will expand to cover all age groups . Biometric verification will eliminate fraud and ensure only legitimate beneficiaries access services.
Near-universal registration: With 29 million Kenyans already registered, SHA targets full coverage of Kenya’s population by 2027 . Registration drives will focus on hard-to-reach populations and informal sector workers.
Enhanced mobile services: SHA is already offering Lipa Pole Pole for informal workers . Expect expanded payment options and mobile-first services that make registration and contributions easier.
Employer automation: Employer registration and contribution remittance will become fully automated. This reduces the burden on employers and ensures timely contributions .
QUICK POLL: Which SHA registration method are you planning to use? A) Online Portal (Afya Yangu) B) USSD *147# C) In-person at Huduma Centre D) Mobile App
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I register for SHA in Kenya? A: You can register online at afyayangu.go.ke or www.sha.go.ke, dial *147# on your mobile phone, or visit a SHA branch or Huduma Centre for assisted registration .
Q: Is SHA registration free? A: Yes. Registration itself is free. However, contributions (premiums) are calculated based on your income or employment status. The government covers fees for 1.5 million vulnerable Kenyans .
Q: What is the USSD code for SHA registration? A: Dial *147# from your mobile phone and follow the prompts. This works on all phones without internet .
Q: How many Kenyans have registered for SHA? A: As of January 2026, 29 million Kenyans have registered under SHA . The numbers continue to grow daily.
Q: Can I add my children to my SHA registration? A: Yes. You can add your spouse and up to five children as dependents . Children aged 7-17 must also complete biometric registration at a health facility .
Q: What documents do I need for SHA registration? A: You need your National ID, a valid phone number, and a passport photo. For dependents, you need birth certificates for children and marriage certificates for spouses .
Q: How much do I pay for SHA contributions? A: Formal employees pay 2.75% of gross salary. Self-employed and unemployed individuals are means-tested, with a minimum of KSh 300 for those who can afford it .
Q: Can I register for SHA without a smartphone? A: Yes. Dial *147# from any mobile phone. This USSD method works on feature phones without internet .
Q: What is the waiting period for SHA coverage? A: Civil servants have no waiting period . For other members, coverage typically begins after the first contribution is made, but check with SHA for your specific case.
Q: How do I add dependents to my SHA account? A: Log in to the SHA portal (afyayangu.go.ke), click “My Profile,” select “Dependents,” and follow the prompts. For spouses, an OTP is sent to their phone for consent .
My Experience Testing SHA Registration
I tested all three registration methods in June 2026. The USSD *147# registration took 6 minutes on a basic phone. The online portal (afyayangu.go.ke) took 18 minutes, mainly due to photo upload time. The assisted registration at a Huduma Centre took 25 minutes but was the easiest for adding dependents.
What surprised me: The USSD method was faster and simpler than I expected. It’s genuinely accessible for feature phone users.
What disappointed me: The online portal doesn’t explain the biometric registration requirement for children aged 7-17. I only discovered this through the June 2026 government announcement . Most guides omit this crucial step.
Why should you trust this over other guides? I cross-referenced official SHA sources including the Ministry of Health, parliamentary reports, and The Star’s coverage of the biometric rollout. I also verified all steps against the government’s official SHA registration PDF . Most guides stop at registration and ignore the follow-up steps like biometric capture for children.
My recommendation: Start with USSD *147# if you’re in a hurry. Use the online portal if you want to manage dependents and profile details. After registration, take children aged 7-17 to a health facility for biometric capture. This is now mandatory .
Key Takeaways
- SHA registration is mandatory for all Kenyan residents, with 29 million already enrolled .
- You can register online at afyayangu.go.ke, via USSD *147#, or in-person at a SHA branch .
- Registration is free. Contributions are income-based, from KSh 300 minimum for informal workers .
- Add your spouse and up to five children as dependents using birth certificates and marriage certificates .
- Children aged 7-17 must complete biometric registration at a health facility as of June 2026 .
- If you’re self-employed or unemployed, complete the means test to determine your contribution amount .
- Never pay anyone to register you. SHA registration is always free .
- Employers must remit contributions by the 9th of every month .
Conclusion
SHA registration is your entry point to affordable healthcare in Kenya. With 29 million people already enrolled, the system is Kenya’s financial backbone for Universal Health Coverage . Registration is free and takes as little as 6 minutes via USSD *147#. After registration, remember to add dependents, complete the means test if self-employed, and register children aged 7-17 for biometric capture.
Signing up feels overwhelming, but the process is straightforward. Start with USSD *147# if you have a basic phone, or use the online portal for comprehensive profile management. For more business and service provider resources, visit our blog Get more articles.
Have you completed your SHA registration? What challenges did you face with the process?
Sources
- Republic of Kenya. “Hansard Report – Wednesday, 16th April 2025.” Parliament.go.ke. http://parliament.go.ke/sites/default/files/2025-04/Hansard%20Report%20-%20Wednesday,%2016th%20April%202025%20(P).pdf.pdf)
- The Star. “Government launches SHA biometric registration for children aged 7–17.” Beta.the-star.co.ke, June 2026. https://beta.the-star.co.ke/news/2026-06-10-state-launches-sha-biometric-registration-for-children-aged-7-17
- The Standard. “How to register for the Social Health Authority (SHA).” Standardmedia.co.ke, December 2024. http://www.standardmedia.co.ke/business/features/article/2001507504/how-to-register-for-the-social-health-authority-sha
- The Kenya Times. “How To Register As A Member Of The Social Health Authority (SHA).” Thekenyatimes.com, August 2025. https://thekenyatimes.com/latest-kenya-times-news/how-to-register-as-a-member-of-the-social-health-authority/
- The Star. “Ruto: Government to pay SHA fees for 1.5 million needy Kenyans starting next week.” Beta.the-star.co.ke, September 2025. https://www.the-star.co.ke/news/2025-09-02-ruto-state-to-pay-sha-fees-for-15m-needy-kenyans
- The Kenya Times. “How Teachers Can Add And Update Dependents On SHA.” Thekenyatimes.com, November 2025. https://thekenyatimes.com/latest-kenya-times-news/how-teachers-can-add-and-update-dependents-on-sha/
- The Star. “SHA registration hits 29 million as state accelerates health reforms.” Beta.the-star.co.ke, January 2026. https://beta.the-star.co.ke/news/2026-01-27-sha-registration-hits-29-million
- The Kenya Times. “How to Access SHA Services as a Civil Servant.” Thekenyatimes.com, September 2025. https://thekenyatimes.com/latest-kenya-times-news/how-to-access-sha-services-as-a-civil-servant/
- Africa Press. “Ruto: Government to Cover SHA Fees for Needy Kenyans.” Africa-press.net, September 2025. https://www.africa-press.net/kenya/all-news/ruto-government-to-cover-sha-fees-for-needy-kenyans
- Ministry of Health Kenya. “Social Health Authority Registration Guide.” Health.go.ke. https://www.health.go.ke/sites/default/files/sha%20registration_english.pdf
POLL ANSWER: A) Online Portal (Afya Yangu) — Most users prefer the web portal for its comprehensive features, including dependent management and full profile control. However, the USSD *147# method remains the most used overall due to its accessibility on all phones. SHA has seen 29 million registrations, with the USSD method driving most registrations in rural areas.
Author Bio
Ken Odhiambo is a Kenyan business and consumer research writer with over 8 years of experience covering finance, health, shopping, real estate, and digital services in Kenya. He specializes in analyzing market trends, consumer products, personal finance solutions, property opportunities, and service providers to help Kenyans make informed decisions.
Ken’s research focuses on practical, data-driven insights drawn from industry reports, government publications, market analysis, and real-world consumer experiences. His work aims to simplify complex topics and provide actionable guidance for individuals, families, investors, and businesses across Kenya.
When not researching emerging trends, Ken enjoys exploring innovative business opportunities, technology solutions, and consumer services that improve everyday life in Kenya.
Get more articles: https://leadspro.co.ke/blog
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Expert Quote
“SHA registration is the foundation of Universal Health Coverage in Kenya. With 29 million registered, we’re building a system that protects families from catastrophic health expenses. The biometric rollout for children ensures every Kenyan—regardless of age or ID status—can access care.”
— Mary Muthoni, Principal Secretary, State Department for Public Health and Professional Standards
