A Bill seeking to expand the social safety nets for vulnerable persons in Kenya by amending the Social Assistance Act of 2013 has been introduced in the National Assembly. 

The Social Assistance (Amendment) Bill, 2023 sponsored by Suna West MP, Hon. Peter Masara was read for the First Time on Thursday, April 11, 2024.

The Bill primarily seeks to amend the Social Assistance Act, 2013 to require the Social Assistance Authority to collaborate with county governments in the provision of social assistance to elderly persons in the form of health care services and shelter.

This Amendment is guided by the Fourth Schedule of the Constitution 2010 which dictates that the provision of health services including the promotion of primary health care and provision of county health facilities is a function of county governments.

Vulnerable people including, orphans, vulnerable children, poor elderly persons, unemployed persons, persons disabled by acute chronic illnesses, widows and widowers and persons with disabilities will be safeguarded as the Bill prescribes the need for periodic review of the financial assistance offered to factor in inflation and the rising cost of living. 

According to the Bill, the Social Assistance Authority will be expected to review the assistance granted to unemployed persons every six months to ascertain whether the person is still eligible for social assistance.