Chairperson of Health Committee Addresses Concerns on Integrated Information Technology System for Universal Healthcare
In a press briefing today, the Chairperson of the Departmental Committee on Health clarified key aspects of the procurement process for the Integrated Information Technology System (IITS) essential for the roll-out of the Social Health Insurance Act, effective tomorrow.
The Chairperson highlighted concerns raised by committee members regarding the lack of a formal letter of consent from the Office of the Attorney General. The Ministry of Health addressed this by providing formal clearance, ensuring compliance with legal requirements aimed at safeguarding public funds.
Another point of contention was the role of Safaricom PLC as the lead partner in the Consortium. The Ministry explained that Safaricom was selected due to its strong capacity to manage the project, leveraging its extensive 5G network and coverage across Kenya. The Consortium, which includes Apiero Limited and Konvergenz Network Solutions Limited, is tasked with overseeing various components of the integrated healthcare system.
The contract, valued at Kshs. 104.8 billion, encompasses a wide array of services beyond the Social Health Insurance, including the development of a Health Information Management System, telemedicine services, and logistics management software.
Concerns were also raised about the inclusion of Specially Permitted Procurement (SPP) in the Ministry’s annual procurement plan. The Ministry confirmed the approval of the SPP, citing the Health Act’s mandate for an integrated health information system.
Addressing potential conflicts of interest, the Ministry clarified that due diligence was conducted by Kaplan & Stratton Advocates, not Dentons Hamilton Harrison & Mathews, ensuring the integrity of the procurement process.
The briefing also addressed infrastructure challenges, with over 4,000 hospitals facing connectivity issues. To mitigate this, the Ministry plans to provide devices with power banks and offline functionality, alongside partnerships to enhance energy infrastructure.
Lastly, the Ministry reassured members regarding system reliability, noting multiple connectivity lines in place to support operations. Since the establishment of the Social Health Authority, 12.5 million Kenyans have been enrolled, with nearly 10 million transitioning from the National Health Insurance Fund.
The Chairperson’s statement reflects the government’s commitment to establishing a robust healthcare system through transparency and strategic partnerships. Further updates will follow as the implementation progresses.
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