Thousands of elderly people in Kenya and families living with persons with severe disabilities are breathing a sigh of relief after the government released money for the Inua Jamii program.
The money has been sent out this week and is part of the January 2026 payment, targeting households across the country who are dependent on the program to help them meet their daily needs.
Over a million people benefited from the funds, mainly seniors aged 70 years and above, as well as families with a member who has a severe disability. The qualified person receives Sh2,000.
Payments started on Friday, with beneficiaries allowed to check the balance of their cash using their mobile phones by dialing *222#. They can withdraw the cash through M-Pesa agents or transfer it to mobile wallets.
Inua Jamii has for a long time stood out as a leading social protection measure to cushion those at the very bottom from retrogression. According to the Ministry, the payments are timely, considering drought and food shortages in some parts of the country, making a compelling need for this support.
The government reiterates its commitment to the continuity of social protection for Kenya’s vulnerable populations, with the ultimate goal of enabling them to live with dignity.
Inua Jamii beneficiary registration is done through special drives led by the government. The eligible applicants can also apply through e-Citizen by dialing *222#, or by visiting social protection offices at the sub-county level. Chiefs and local officers help verify eligible households before the actual payments begin.
