The World Bank has approved Ksh16.4 billion to support millions of vulnerable Kenyans through a program known as the Second Kenya Social and Economic Inclusion Project, or KSEIP2.
This new project builds on the success of the first one, which helped many poor families improve their lives.
The money will be used to make sure struggling households get basic services, start small businesses, and cope with high food prices and the growing challenges caused by climate change.
According to the World Bank, the program will benefit around 12 million people. These include orphans, older people, and persons with disabilities who are already part of the government’s National Safety Net Program.
The plan is to give them more than just cash. World Bank Director for Kenya, Qimiao Fan, said the aim is to make sure families are not just depending on aid but are able to support themselves in the long term.
He added that the support would help families get jobs, access healthcare, and send their children to school.
One of the unique features of KSEIP2 is the ‘cash-plus’ approach. This means that apart from receiving money, the beneficiaries will also get training, help to start small businesses that can survive climate challenges, and links to government services like pension and insurance schemes.
This approach is meant to help families become more stable and independent.The World Bank will also focus on young people and children.
Through special programs, they will receive nutrition support, education materials, and life skills training to help them grow into healthy and productive adults.
This is part of a long-term plan to build a better future for the next generation.In areas like northern Kenya, where droughts and harsh conditions are common, the project will include a rapid response system.
This system will provide emergency money when families are hit by sudden disasters.
World Bank Senior Economist Shubha Chakravarty said this support is meant to give all Kenyan families a chance to escape poverty.
He said the project is focused on helping people stand on their own instead of just relying on handouts.
The World Bank has supported Kenya before with programs like KYEOP, which helped the youth find work and get startup capital. With KSEIP2, they hope to continue making a real difference in the lives of vulnerable Kenyans.
