NAIROBI, Kenya — The government has released Sh1.72 billion to support households enrolled in the Cash Transfer for Orphans and Vulnerable Children (CT-OVC) programme under the Inua Jamii social protection initiative.
In a statement issued on Friday, the State Department for Children Services said the funds will benefit 430,998 households across the country caring for orphans and vulnerable children.
According to the Ministry of Gender, Culture, and Children Services, the disbursement covers January and February 2026 payments, with each beneficiary household receiving Sh4,000, representing a double payment for the two months.
Payments will begin on March 6, 2026, through the programme’s contracted payment service provider.
Principal Secretary for Children Services CPA Carren Ageng’o said the CT-OVC programme is designed to support families caring for vulnerable children while strengthening their wellbeing and development.
“The programme aims to encourage the fostering and retention of orphans and vulnerable children within their families and communities while promoting their human capital development,” the statement said.
The CT-OVC programme is one of Kenya’s flagship social protection initiatives and operates under the broader Inua Jamii programme, which provides direct financial support to vulnerable groups.
Officials say the initiative seeks to improve education access, health outcomes, nutrition, and household food security for children living in vulnerable conditions.
Through regular cash transfers, the programme encourages families to keep children in school and ensures they have access to essential services such as healthcare and proper nutrition.
The government also says the programme strengthens child protection systems by supporting community-based care rather than institutional placements.
Kenya’s social protection framework has expanded over the past decade to include several cash transfer programmes targeting vulnerable populations, including the elderly, persons with severe disabilities, and households caring for orphaned children.
The CT-OVC scheme remains one of the largest components of the initiative, reflecting the government’s efforts to support families affected by poverty, disease, and other social vulnerabilities.
Authorities say continued investment in such programmes is aimed at building resilience among disadvantaged households while improving long-term outcomes for children.
