Government plans to expand cash transfers to 2.5 million households

The government plans to expand cash transfers to 2.5 million vulnerable households and roll out a National School Meals Programme by 2027. The proposals took centre stage as Kenya opened the Fourth Social Protection Conference in Nairobi, bringing together government officials, development partners, civil society, researchers and the private sector. The Inua Jamii programme currently provides cash transfers to 1.7 million vulnerable households across the country. The government now plans to scale up the programme through a new Social Protection Fund, targeting more eligible households, particularly in the poorest areas across all 47 counties. The current safety net is funded through the national budget, with beneficiaries receiving 2,000 shillings per month. The programme primarily supports older persons aged 70 and above, orphans and vulnerable children, and persons with severe disabilities. The planned expansion is also expected to help clear a growing registration backlog and extend support to more vulnerable families.