Labour and Social Protection CS Alfred Mutua has hailed the enactment of the Social Protection Act, 2025, as a historic step and game changer in securing dignity for the vulnerable in the country.
Mutua said the new law will protect the elderly, the orphaned, and persons with disabilities, as well as protect families from hardship.
He said this will create a fair and more resilient society where no one will be left behind in the quest for equity and dignity.
“Today, at State House, Nairobi, H.E. President Dr. William Ruto signed the Social Protection Act, 2025, a game changer in securing dignity, equity, and support for Kenya’s most vulnerable," Mutua said.
“This bold law will cushion families from hardship, protect the elderly, orphans, and persons with disabilities, and build a fairer, more resilient society. No one will be left behind."
The CS said his ministry is committed to implementing the new law using inclusive and accessible programmes that transform lives.
He insisted that the journey to a just Kenya is well underway.
“As the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection, we are committed to rolling out this landmark law through inclusive, accessible, and rights-based programmes that truly transform lives. The journey to a just and compassionate Kenya is well underway. Mbele iko sawa.”
His remarks come after President William Ruto assented to the Social Protection Bill, 2025, and the Conflict of Interest Bill, 2025, into laws at the State House, Nairobi.
The new law has now replaced the Social Assistance Act and established a National Board for Social Protection to coordinate non-contributory benefits such as cash transfers, social care and feeding programs.
It adopts a life-cycle approach, supporting individuals through various stages of vulnerability, such as orphans, the elderly, persons with disabilities and those in extreme poverty.
County governments will play a role in implementing national policies and developing local social protection strategies.
A central digital registry will manage applications, monitor services and track vulnerable households, especially during shocks or emergencies.
Eligibility is extended to Kenyan citizens and non-citizens
in emergencies, with clear appeal mechanisms provided. A Social
Protection Fund will be created to finance the programs.
