Kenya’s welfare plan should empower, not merely sustain

Kenya’s proposed Social Protection Bill 2025 represents a significant effort to reshape the nation's approach to supporting vulnerable citizens. The intent is commendable; providing a crucial safety net for employees. But its design raises practical questions about long-term impact.

The bill's focus on unemployment benefits raises important questions about coverage. With only 17 percent of Kenyans in formal employment, the majority working in informal sectors could potentially be excluded from its protections.