President William Ruto has said that 16% of Kenyans live below the poverty line.
Speaking during the Kenya social protection conference in Nairobi, president Ruto said Many people cannot afford a decent living, are vulnerable, marginalized and at the risk of being left behind.
The head of state said that From 1st of June, social protection cash transfer money will be disbursed before salaries of public servants.
“Many people on the cash transfer program are former workers, but the culture of saving was absent.”
” I’m happy that citizens will no longer contribute Shs.200 monthly towards NSSF, every Kenyan will contribute 6% of their pay to NSSF. This will eliminate old age poverty.”
President Ruto said County govts, private sector and multilateral organizations are among govt cherished partners in the social protection agenda.
He said that the Govt has allocated Shs.28B to support cash transfer program which covers older persons, orphans, PWDs and vulnerable households in ASAL regions.
President Ruto said that he is holding a discussion with stakeholders to make NHIF affordable
“Our journey towards UHC is underway. We are in discussion with stakeholders to actualize the commitment I made to Kenyans of making NHIF affordable.”
“Currently, the lowest contributor pays Sh.500, but later this year it will be possible to pay Sh.300 and still keep the cover.”
“Social protection cannot wait until 2030 when we will have achieved our economic vision.”