SHA fraud probe: DPP approves charges against hospitals, suspects

The Social Health Authority buildings in Nairobi.

The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions has directed that several individuals and health institutions be charged following investigations into alleged fraud at the Social Health Authority.

In a press statement dated February 25, 2026, theODPP said it had reviewed investigation files submitted by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) between January 28 and February 24, 2026, concerning fraudulent registration, claims and payments linked to the authority.

The investigations uncovered an alleged scheme involving several health facilities accused of illegally registering with the authority and receiving payments through fraudulent means.

Prosecutors approved a range of charges, including conspiracy to defraud, obtaining money by false pretences, operating unlicensed health facilities, and acquisition of proceeds of crime.

According to the statement, some of the implicated facilities were operating without proper licensing, contrary to the Medical Practitioners and Dentists Act. Others are accused of submitting false claims and receiving funds they were not entitled to from the public health insurer.

The investigations also implicated an official attached to the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council, who now faces several charges related to unauthorised access to a computer system, abuse of office, computer fraud and conspiracy to defraud.

According to the DPP, the official used their position to unlawfully access computer systems and facilitate the fraudulent registration of the health facilities, enabling them to receive payments from the authority.

In this case, both individuals and their associated institutions will face charges for obtaining money by false pretence, while others face additional charges linked to money laundering laws, specifically the acquisition of proceeds of crime.

The prosecution office said the decision to charge the suspects followed a comprehensive review of the evidence gathered during the investigations.

The developments mark a significant step in efforts to address fraud within the public health insurance system, which is designed to help Kenyans access affordable medical care.

Fraudulent activities within the system not only undermine public trust but also divert critical resources intended to support legitimate healthcare providers and patients.

The prosecution office emphasised that it remains committed to executing its constitutional mandate and ensuring accountability for those involved in criminal activities.

“The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions remains committed to upholding its mandate under the Constitution and the law,” the statement said.

The suspects are expected to be arraigned to face the charges, as the government intensifies its crackdown on fraud within public institutions.