Date of publication:

01/09/2026

Kenya

Do domestic laws and policies provide access to social protection for forcibly displaced and stateless persons?

ANALYSIS

Assessment by population

Refugees
Asylum-seekers
Analysis

Kenya’s social assistance programs are primarily targeted at vulnerable citizens, including the elderly, persons with disabilities, and low-income households, through initiatives such as cash transfer programs, food subsidies, and emergency relief assistance. However, there is no direct legal provision ensuring the inclusion of asylum-seekers and refugees in these programs. While some humanitarian organizations collaborate with the government to provide cash assistance, food distribution, and education support for refugees, these are not state-sponsored entitlements and rely heavily on external funding. Refugees residing in camps and urban areas often receive limited financial support through aid agencies, but access to government-funded social welfare programs remains restricted due to policy gaps. Recognizing refugees and asylum-seekers as eligible beneficiaries under national social assistance frameworks would strengthen their economic resilience and reduce dependency on international aid.

    LAW & POLICY

    Related provisions of domestic law or policy

    Social Assistance Act

    Legal provision

    Section 3 - Establishment of the Authority

    There is established an Authority to be known as the National Social Assistance Authority.

    Section 4 - Functions of the Authority

    The functions of the Authority shall be to— (a) provide social assistance to persons in need; (b) maintain a register of persons in need of social assistance; (c) facilitate the registration of voluntary social assistance organizations and monitor their activities; (d) collaborate with other bodies and organizations in the provision of social assistance; and (e) perform such other functions as may be assigned under this Act.

    Kenya Social Protection Policy

    Legal provision

    Kenya Social Protection Policy - Generic

    Kenya Social Protection Policy - Generic