NAIROBI, Kenya – The government has released Sh3.5 billion to beneficiaries of the Inua Jamii Cash Transfer Programme, providing a financial lifeline to more than 1.75 million vulnerable Kenyans, including the elderly, orphans, and persons with severe disabilities.
According to a statement by the State Department for Social Protection and Senior Citizen Affairs, the funds cover the month of May, with each of the 1,759,656 enrolled beneficiaries set to receive Sh2,000.
“The Inua Jamii Cash Transfer Programme remains a cornerstone of the government’s social protection strategy,” said Principal Secretary Joseph Motari, affirming the state’s commitment to cushion Kenya’s most vulnerable groups.
Payments Go Digital via M-Pesa
The government is now transitioning cash transfers from traditional bank accounts to M-Pesa, in a bid to improve accessibility and speed of disbursement. Beneficiaries can now access funds through the E-Citizen platform by dialing *222#.
This shift follows a successful pilot in Murang’a and Marsabit counties that began in November 2024.
The rollout aims to leverage the widespread presence of M-Pesa agents across the country, making payments closer, faster, and more convenient for recipients.
Beneficiaries or their caregivers can withdraw their full amount without incurring transaction charges by presenting their national ID at any M-Pesa agent.
Alternatively, they may opt to transfer the money to their M-Pesa wallets for flexible use.
Community-Based Approach
Inua Jamii is jointly managed by the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection and the Ministry of Devolution and ASALs and is implemented through a vast network of county and sub-county officials, Beneficiary Welfare Committees, and grassroots administrators.
Local Chiefs and Assistant Chiefs play a key role as “Inua Jamii ambassadors”, holding regular barazas to share information about the programme and assist beneficiaries in navigating the system.
Officials noted that beneficiary identification is conducted through an “objective and transparent process,” with efforts ongoing to streamline operations and expand coverage.
The Inua Jamii programme remains one of the government’s flagship social safety nets aimed at reducing extreme poverty and promoting dignity and resilience among Kenya’s most marginalised populations.
