MTRH clarifies reports of detaining new mothers for not paying SHA fees

This follows a short video that went viral on TikTok and a subsequent report by the Daily Nation on September 18, 2025, which indicated that the mothers were unable to leave the hospital after delivery due to non-payment.

In a statement, MTRH Chief Executive Officer Dr Philip Kirwa said all mothers at the facility had received the necessary care and attention in line with the hospital’s standards. 

He explained that the delays in discharge arose mainly from challenges in completing SHA registration, often linked to missing documents such as national identity cards or birth certificates, or unpaid annual premiums required for bill settlement.

Dr Kirwa also dismissed claims that patients had been served leftover food, pointing out that meals, medical supplies, and services at the referral hospital meet quality standards. 

He added that MTRH remains committed to treating all patients with dignity and urged Kenyans to ensure their SHA registration and premiums are up to date to facilitate smooth service delivery.

The CEO further noted that teenage mothers who do not yet have identity cards are supported with temporary documents to allow them to register for SHA. For those unable to pay, he said, the hospital’s credit committee reviews their cases before releasing them home.

According to Dr Kirwa, congestion inside the hospital occasionally occurs when patients have not completed SHA enrolment, but the hospital continues to work closely with the Ministry of Health to streamline the process.

His statement follows concerns raised by the public after the TikTok video posted by 22-year-old Melvin Nyagoha, who highlighted how new mothers are stranded inside the hospital for failing to settle SHA fees. 

She indicated that the hospital mandated her to pay SHA's annual fees within 24 hours to receive treatment. Nyagoha was, however, admitted, but three months later, remains stranded at the facility due to non-payment. 

SHA, one of President William Ruto’s legacy projects, has faced criticism over accessibility, with some Kenyans complaining that they are still being required to pay for services the government had promised would be free.

The government has, however, assured the public that measures are being put in place to address the challenges and make the contributory fund effective and accessible to all.