Dr. Mercy Mwangangi has been appointed as the inaugural Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Kenya’s Social Health Authority (SHA), marking a significant step in the nation’s healthcare reform efforts. The announcement was made on April 11, 2025, by Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale, following a competitive selection process that saw 92 applicants vying for the position.
Dr. Mwangangi brings over 15 years of experience in public health, health financing, and policy development. She previously served as the Chief Administrative Secretary at the Ministry of Health, where she played a pivotal role during the COVID-19 pandemic. Her leadership was instrumental in coordinating the national response, including public communication, resource mobilization, and policy implementation.
Prior to her appointment, Dr. Mwangangi was the Senior Health Systems Strengthening Director at AMREF Health Africa. In this role, she led initiatives focused on health financing and security across the continent, aiming to bolster primary healthcare and advance universal health coverage (UHC).
The SHA, established under the Social Health Insurance Act of 2023, is tasked with overseeing the transition from the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) to a more inclusive Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF). This transition is central to Kenya’s goal of achieving equitable access to quality healthcare for all citizens.
Dr. Mwangangi’s appointment is seen as a strategic move to steer the SHA through this critical transition. Her extensive background in health policy and systems strengthening positions her to effectively lead the Authority in implementing reforms aimed at enhancing healthcare delivery and financing.
In his statement, CS Duale expressed confidence in Dr. Mwangangi’s capabilities, highlighting her proven track record in health governance and strategic partnerships. He noted that her leadership would be vital in driving the SHA’s mandate forward.
Dr. Mwangangi’s selection followed a thorough recruitment process, where she emerged as the top candidate among 12 shortlisted individuals. Other notable candidates included acting SHA CEO Robert Ingasira and various professionals from the health sector.
As she assumes her new role, stakeholders in Kenya’s health sector are optimistic that Dr. Mwangangi’s leadership will catalyze the successful implementation of the SHA’s objectives, ultimately contributing to the realization of universal health coverage in the country.
