The government has allocated Sh28 billion to support cash transfer programs implemented by the State Department for Social Protection.

The intervention is expected to help address the problem of exclusion by increasing the social protection cover of the vulnerable and supporting their economic empowerment to boost resilience.

This is according to President William Ruto who announced that on Tuesday during the official opening of the Kenya Social Protection Conference at the Kenya School of Government in Lower Kabete. 

William Ruto during the official opening of the Kenya Social Protection Conference at the Kenya School of Government. PHOTO/STATE HOUSE

Ruto said this move would provide a cushion and enhance their sense of belonging in society.

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"The Government has allocated Ksh28 Billion to support cash transfer programmes implemented by the State Department for Social Protection," Ruto said.

"We believe such interventions will help address the problem of exclusion by increasing the social protection cover of the vulnerable and supporting their economic empowerment to boost resilience."

Ruto also announced that vulnerable groups, such as the elderly, will now receive their stipends prior to the civil servants' monthly pay under the new scheme.

He stressed that social protection is as urgent as the country's economic development and cannot wait until 2030, when the economic vision is achieved.

According to President Ruto, too many people are vulnerable, marginalised and at risk of being left behind. Empowering millions at the bottom of the wealth pyramid will eliminate poverty, reduce inequality and enhance momentum towards shared prosperity.

"Too many people cannot afford a decent living, are vulnerable, marginalised and at the risk of being left behind," the president said.

“Empowering the millions at the bottom of the wealth pyramid will eliminate poverty, reduce inequality and enhance our momentum towards shared prosperity.”


Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua noted that the Government is investing in people to enable them to take part meaningfully in Kenya's economic transformation.

Council of Governors Chairman Anne Waiguru said there is increasing momentum towards expanding social protection in Kenya, in line with the Sustainable Development Goals. She added that this is a crucial step towards eradicating poverty and enhancing prosperity for all.