Ruto Orders Cash Transfers for Marginalized Families

President Issues Directive on Social Protection
President William Ruto ordered urgent registration of minority and marginalized families into cash transfer programmes. Moreover, he emphasized the move will strengthen household resilience and dignity.

Targeted Communities to Benefit
The directive covers hunter-gatherer groups including the Ogiek, Sengwer, Yaaku, and Sanye. Additionally, pastoralists such as the Maasai, Samburu, and Somalis will benefit from the programme.

Coastal and Linguistic Minorities Included
Coastal communities like the Arabs and Pemba are part of the initiative. Furthermore, linguistic minorities such as the Suba and Terik will gain support to preserve their heritage.

Addressing Historical Challenges
These communities have faced poverty, exclusion, and forced evictions for decades. Consequently, the programme seeks to restore dignity and ensure equal access to services.

Scholarship Programme Announced
Ruto unveiled a Ksh 500 million National Minority Scholarship Programme. Moreover, it will support children from indigent families to access secondary and tertiary education.

Health Contributions Covered
The government will pay Social Health Authority contributions for 200,000 vulnerable individuals. Therefore, marginalized families will gain improved access to healthcare services.

Education Infrastructure Fund Established
Ruto directed allocation of Ksh 200 million annually for school construction and upgrades. Additionally, the fund will enhance education opportunities in marginalized regions.

Directorate Elevated for Oversight
The Minority and Marginalized Affairs Unit has been elevated into a semi-autonomous agency. Consequently, it will coordinate and implement interventions across government institutions.

Policy Integration into Budgets
Cabinet Secretaries and Principal Secretaries must integrate the policy into 2026–2027 budget estimates. Therefore, accountability and inclusion will be mainstreamed in government planning.