Ngong, Kajiado County, Kenya – Beneficiaries of the Inua Jamii social welfare program in Ngong, Kajiado North constituency, have expressed their gratitude to the government for streamlining access to their funds through the E-Citizen platform and mobile money (M-Pesa). This shift from traditional bank disbursements to digital payments has significantly eased the burden on elderly recipients, many of whom faced significant challenges traveling to banks.
"We used to travel long distances and spend a considerable portion of our stipend on transport to reach the banks," explained Ann Njoki, a local beneficiary. "Now, thanks to E-Citizen and the widespread availability of M-Pesa agents, accessing our funds is much simpler and more convenient."
Agnes Maina, another beneficiary, highlighted the particular difficulties she faced due to health complications. Long journeys to the bank were often impossible, forcing her to rely on caregivers. "Now," she said, "I can access my funds easily, which has made a huge difference."
Joseph Motari, Principal Secretary for Social Protection, recently conducted spot checks in Ngong to assess the implementation of the new payment system. He emphasized the government's commitment to improving the lives of vulnerable citizens. "President Ruto directed us to ensure that elderly beneficiaries receive their payments through mobile money," Motari stated. He explained that the President recognized the financial strain the previous system placed on recipients, with some spending up to half of their 2,000 shilling stipend on transportation alone. The transition to M-Pesa via E-Citizen aims to eliminate these costs and ensure beneficiaries receive the full amount.
Earlier this week, the State Department for Social Protection disbursed 3.52 billion shillings (approximately $22 million USD) to 1,760,074 beneficiaries under the Inua Jamii program for the January 2025 payment cycle. Each beneficiary received 2,000 shillings (approximately $12.50 USD). Payments commenced on February 11, 2025.
The government's transition to mobile money payments is a nationwide initiative designed to improve service delivery and financial inclusion. The pilot phase of the program began in November 2024 in Murang’a and Marsabit counties. Beneficiaries can access their funds by dialing *222# on their mobile phones or visiting any M-Pesa agent with their national ID. Withdrawals at M-Pesa agents are free of transaction charges, and beneficiaries can also transfer the funds to their M-Pesa wallets for greater flexibility.
Recognizing that some elderly beneficiaries may not have registered Safaricom lines, the telecommunications company has made a special provision. While standard procedure prohibits M-Pesa agent registration for individuals aged 60 and above, an exception has been made for Inua Jamii beneficiaries and their caregivers whose IDs have been verified by Safaricom. This ensures that all beneficiaries can access their funds through the M-Pesa platform.
The shift to mobile payments represents a significant step towards greater financial inclusion and accessibility for Kenya's elderly population. By leveraging the widespread reach of M-Pesa, the government is ensuring that social welfare payments reach those who need them most, efficiently and effectively. This initiative not only reduces financial strain but also empowers beneficiaries by giving them greater control over their funds.
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