NAIROBI, Kenya, Jan 8 – The Ministry of Labour and Social Protection has released Sh3.5 billion for elderly and disabled individuals under the Inua Jamii Cash Transfer program.
The disbursement aims to benefit 1.8 million Kenyans enrolled in the initiative.
Payments commenced on January 7, 2025, with each beneficiary set to receive Sh2,000 to cover the December 2024 cycle.
The transfer is part of the government’s continued efforts to support vulnerable populations by providing financial assistance to cushion them from poverty and hunger, thus enhancing their overall quality of life.
To streamline service delivery, the government is piloting a new payment method through MPESA, utilizing the E-Citizen platform.
This pilot phase is currently underway in Murang’a and Marsabit Counties, and by January 2025, all beneficiaries will be able to access their funds via this more efficient system, benefiting from MPESA’s extensive agent network.
Beneficiaries in other counties will still receive their payments through the traditional method via contracted commercial banks, ensuring no disruption in the payment process.
Joseph Motari, the Principal Secretary of the State Department for Social Protection and Senior Citizen Affairs, emphasised the importance of this new system in improving the delivery of social protection services.
“We are committed to ensuring that the most vulnerable members of society continue to receive the support they need in a timely and efficient manner,” Motari said.
He asserted that the initiative reflects the government’s ongoing investment in social protection, aimed at reducing inequality and improving the livelihoods of its citizens.
The program, which was implemented in 2018, represents a major milestone in the expansion of the lifecycle approach to social protection in Kenya.
It ensures that all citizens are now entitled to a minimum income guarantee during their old age.
It targets senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and other marginalized groups.
