Inua Jamii Goes Digital

In a significant move towards digitizing social welfare programs, the Kenyan government has launched a new payment system for its Inua Jamii beneficiaries, marking a major transformation in how social protection funds are disbursed to vulnerable citizens.

The government has released Ksh 3.5 billion to support approximately 1.8 million elderly persons through the Inua Jamii program. This initiative, which forms a crucial part of Kenya's social safety net, is undergoing a digital transformation with the introduction of mobile money payments through the e-Citizen platform.

Principal Secretary Motari confirmed that the transition to the new payment system is progressing as planned. The state is currently piloting M-PESA payments for beneficiaries through the e-Citizen platform, streamlining the process and making it more accessible for recipients.

"This digital transformation will ensure faster, more secure, and efficient delivery of funds to our beneficiaries," stated PS Motari. The new system aims to eliminate previous challenges associated with the traditional payment model, including long queues and delayed disbursements.

Selected beneficiaries are scheduled to receive their payments this week, as the government rolls out the first phase of disbursements under the new system. The digital payment method is expected to reduce transaction costs and provide greater convenience for elderly beneficiaries who previously had to travel long distances to access their funds.

The modernization of the Inua Jamii program represents a significant step forward in Kenya's efforts to leverage technology for improved public service delivery. As the system proves successful, it could serve as a model for other social welfare programs across the country and region.