Kenya Launches Initiative to Extend Social Protection to Informal Workers

In a significant move to enhance social protection for vulnerable workers, Cabinet Secretary for Labor and Social Protection Alfred Mutua announced the launch of a new collaborative project aimed at extending coverage to those in the informal economy. The initiative, unveiled during a ceremony attended by representatives from Kenya, China, and the International Labour Organisation (ILO), seeks to address the critical gaps in social safety nets for informal sector workers.

Mutua highlighted the urgent need for reforms, emphasizing that a substantial portion of Kenya’s workforce operates within the informal sector, often without access to essential benefits and protections. “The informal sector forms the backbone of our economy,” he stated, noting that the lack of adequate social protection measures leaves many workers trapped in cycles of poverty and social exclusion.

The project aims to build a comprehensive framework that not only provides social protection to informal workers but also leverages digital transformation to broaden coverage and accessibility. Mutua expressed the government’s commitment to ensuring that all workers, regardless of their employment status, have equal rights and benefits.

“The launch of this initiative marks a pivotal step towards achieving a more inclusive social protection system,” he added. “Our mission is to change the narrative for informal workers and ensure they are not left behind.”

As the government collaborates with international partners, it aims to implement innovative solutions that will integrate digital tools into the social protection framework, ultimately providing a safety net for millions of informal workers across the country.

The initiative comes at a crucial time as Kenya continues to navigate economic challenges, with informal workers increasingly recognized for their significant contribution to the nation’s economy. The hope is that by extending social protection coverage, these workers will gain greater financial security and improved living conditions.