Social Protection Committee Pushes for Workplace Support for Mothers and Increased Social Assistance Rates
The Social Protection Committee has called for stronger workplace support for breastfeeding mothers and an urgent adjustment of social assistance rates to match the rising cost of living. In a key meeting chaired by Hon. Alice Ng’ang’a (Thika Town), committee members discussed two major legislative efforts: the Breastfeeding Mothers Bill, 2024, and the Social Assistance (Amendment) Bill, 2023.
Hon. Sabina Chege, MP, sponsor of the Breastfeeding Mothers Bill, emphasized the need for lactation spaces in both formal and informal workplaces, highlighting the link between supportive work environments and increased productivity for breastfeeding mothers. She noted, “Breast milk is the most affordable and nutritious food for infants under six months, and every woman deserves the opportunity to provide the best for her child.” The committee also agreed that foster and adoptive mothers should be included under the bill’s provisions.
Meanwhile, Hon. Peter Francis Masara, MP, sponsor of the Social Assistance (Amendment) Bill, 2023, urged for the social assistance allowance to be raised from its stagnant Ksh 2,000 rate, which has not been adjusted since 2013. He stressed that the existing allowance is inadequate and does not reflect the harsh realities of today’s cost of living.
The Principal Secretary for Social Protection, Mr. Joseph Motari, reiterated the Ministry’s commitment to protecting both children and mothers, signaling support for the bills. The Committee Chair assured both the Ministry and bill sponsors that addressing these issues is a top priority for the Committee, which remains dedicated to ensuring better social protection for vulnerable groups in the country.
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