The case of Baby Arianna, where the Social Health Authority (SHA) covered only Ksh23,620 of her Ksh1.6 million medical bill, has fueled Kenyans’s frustration that the new health insurance system is failing.
Many argue that SHA, which replaced NHIF, is proving inadequate, leaving families stranded with hefty medical expenses. Even private hospitals in Kenya are turning away patients under the SHA cover.
The Case of Baby Arianna: Illness and Death
Arianna Wairimu, is a 19-month-old baby, was diagnosed with Pearson Syndrome—a rare and severe blood disorder affecting only about ten people worldwide.
Her condition required a life-saving bone marrow transplant, which was performed in India after months of fundraising.
Unfortunately, she developed complications after the transplant.
Arianna’s body rejected the new bone marrow, weakening her immune system.
And she was placed on immunosuppressants to help her body adjust, but this left her vulnerable to infections.
After returning to Kenya in November 2024, she initially showed signs of improvement.
But in February 2025, Arianna contracted rotavirus, a common but dangerous infection for those with weak immune systems.
Despite doctors’ efforts, her body could not fight off the virus, and she passed away on February 23.
Nation reported that SHA only cleared Sh 23,600 out of her Sh1.6 million hospital bill, despite her mother religiously contributing to NHIF for a decade, which the government recently shifted to SHA.
CS Barasa’s Response When Grilled
Health CS Deborah Barasa was grilled by the Senate about SHA’s small contribution to Arianna’s medical bill. She initially avoided the question, offering condolences.
Under pressure from Senators John Methu and Samson Cherargei, Barasa stated that SHA had not received an invoice from Fortis Hospital in India and would review it once received.
She added that SHA had increased ICU coverage from Ksh4,600 (under NHIF) to Ksh28,000.
On the other hand, SHA CEO Robert Ingsira blamed miscommunication for the minimal SHA Coverage in Baby Arianna’s case. And that the hospital wrote that there was no outstanding bill.
But Arianna’s mother refuted this and told NTV that there is an outstanding Sh 1.2 million hospital bill.
Many Kenyans remain doubtful, citing Arianna’s case as proof that SHA is failing families in medical crises.
By Vivian K.