MPs Raise Alarm Over Delays in Inua Jamii Cash Payments
Members of Parliament have raised concerns about delays in the payment of funds under the Inua Jamii Cash Programme, warning that many vulnerable citizens might miss out on their crucial monthly payments.
During a parliamentary session on Wednesday, lawmakers directed the government to ensure that all beneficiaries of the program receive their payments on time, especially with the risk of delays in the coming months.
The parliamentary Social Protection Committee, chaired by Thika MP Alice Ng’ang’a, was briefed on the 2025 Budget Policy Statement (BPS). During the session, Principal Secretary for Social Protection and Senior Citizen Affairs, Joseph Motari, expressed concerns regarding the availability of funds for the program.
Motari highlighted the financial challenges the government is facing, which could affect the disbursement of funds from March to July of this year. He revealed that the funds designated for the Inua Jamii Cash Programme have already been depleted.
This statement from the Principal Secretary raised alarm among the MPs, who emphasized that the government must prioritize funding for the program. They noted the critical importance of these cash transfers, especially for the elderly and other vulnerable groups who rely on the support for their daily survival.
The lawmakers were particularly worried about the consequences of any disruption to the program. They pointed out that even a temporary halt in payments would have devastating effects on the beneficiaries, many of whom depend on these funds for essential needs.
MPs were clear in their calls for urgent action to resolve the funding issues and ensure that the program continues without interruptions.
The committee also insisted on greater transparency in the allocation and distribution of funds to avoid further delays and to reassure the affected individuals.
They directed Principal Secretary Joseph Motari to ensure that all beneficiaries from the 2023 Inua Jamii registration, totaling over 620,000 individuals, receive their payments without fail.
Furthermore, the MPs pushed for a new round of enrolment for eligible beneficiaries, recognizing the growing need for assistance among those who depend on these payments.
They stressed that the program’s sustainability is crucial, not only for the elderly but also for other vulnerable citizens across the country.
During the session, Principal Secretary Motari also reported that the government had successfully transitioned the payment system to the eCitizen and mobile money platforms. This shift has resulted in significant savings, amounting to over Ksh1.2 billion annually, due to reduced transaction costs.
The lawmakers also called for improvements in service delivery and greater accessibility to the National Development Fund for Persons with Disabilities at the constituency level.
Additionally, they raised concerns over the reduction in funding for the Child Welfare Society, highlighting the importance of protecting vulnerable children’s access to basic needs such as food, shelter, and education.
Thika MP Alice Ng’ang’a made it clear that the budget cuts should not negatively impact essential support services for vulnerable children, urging that their needs be safeguarded despite the financial challenges the government is facing.
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