Kericho: The Government has disbursed a total of Sh 93,314,000 to 26,879 elderly beneficiaries under the Inua Jamii social protection programme in Kericho County. Mr. Davies Ngeno, the Senior Development Officer, stated that each registered individual under the programme receives Sh 2,000 per month, a stipend aimed at supporting elderly persons and improving their living conditions.
According to Kenya News Agency, Mr. Ngeno, while speaking in his office, mentioned that although the initiative has benefited many elderly individuals in the country, some unscrupulous individuals, including caregivers, are diverting the funds for other uses. 'Despite the success in reaching thousands of beneficiaries, there are concerns over the lack of oversight regarding how the money is used once disbursed,' Mr. Ngeno added.
Mr. Ngeno emphasized that the Inua Jamii programme continues to provide financial assistance to the elderly while supporting them through consistent aid to meet daily needs and medical assistance. Initially, the funds were disbursed through banking systems, enabling closer process monitoring. However, challenges arose when the mode of disbursement changed to the mobile payment system, 'M-Pesa', which, while more convenient, eliminated the department's ability to track whether beneficiaries directly received the funds or if intermediaries misused them.
To address these issues, Mr. Ngeno stated that elderly persons or their caregivers are encouraged to report any grievances to the Department of Social Services. 'If any beneficiary feels they are not benefiting directly from the funds, they have the right to raise a complaint,' Mr. Ngeno said. Complaints are forwarded to the area chief for proper follow-up and action, ensuring the elderly are not exploited and receive intended support.
Another challenge facing the programme is the irregular registration process for Kenyans aged 70 years and above. Registration occurs when funds are available, leaving many eligible individuals unregistered for long periods. The most recent registration exercise was conducted in 2023, leaving many newly qualified elderly persons yet to be captured in the system, denying them access to much-needed support.
Fortunately, the registration process is straightforward. Beneficiaries are not required to own smartphones but need a registered SIM card and a Safaricom line for enrolment into the programme, making it accessible to most elderly citizens. Despite hurdles, the Inua Jamii programme remains a critical support system for thousands of elderly people in Kericho County. Mr. Ngeno reiterated the government's commitment to improving and expanding the programme to reach more qualified individuals.