• The Social Protection Bill 2024, approved by the Cabinet last week, was tabled by CS Florence Bore.
• The Bill has been recognised as a potent strategy to combat poverty and promote inclusive growth.
Image: PCS
The government through the Social Protection department plans to enhance protection of Kenyans' rights to basic education, nutrition, food security, healthcare and employment among other rights.
The Social Protection Bill 2024, approved by the Cabinet last week, was tabled by CS Florence Bore, the Cabinet Secretary in charge of the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection.
"The proposed Social Protection Bill, 2024, is designed to bridge existing gaps in social protection, addressing issues such as fragmented legislation, lack of coordination, and insufficient funding," the Bill reads in part.
"The Bill outlines entitlements to social protection, eligibility criteria, rights and obligations of beneficiaries and various provisions related to social assistance, social health protection, income security, fair labour market practices and complementary programs," it adds.
The Bill further establishes the social assistance fund, National Board for Social Protection, detailing its functions, composition and powers, along with provisions for county governments, civic education and multi-agency committees.
The Bill has been recognised as a potent strategy to combat poverty and promote inclusive growth.
The current social protection interventions, predominantly social assistance programs, are implemented by the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection and the Ministry of East African Community, Arid and Semi Arid Lands , and Regional Development under the National Drought and Management Authority (NDMA).
These initiatives, including cash transfers for orphans and vulnerable children, older persons and persons with severe disabilities and the Presidential Secondary School Bursary have contributed to improved household food security, school retention rates, access to healthcare and enhanced social support networks.
"Motivated by the need for coherence and coordination, the Bill seeks to address the lack of legislation for shock-responsive social protection," the Bill says.
It also seeks to extend social protection to individuals working outside informal employment, acknowledging the diverse nature of employment in the country.
This proposed legislation is expected to be a milestone in enhancing the capacity and opportunities for the poor and vulnerable to improve and sustain their livelihoods and welfare in alignment with government's commitment to the gradual realization of economic and social rights.