The Kenyan government has completed the disbursement of cash transfers amounting to Sh6,000 for households supporting orphaned and vulnerable children, covering payments for April, May, and June 2026.

The Ministry of Gender, Culture and Children Services announced that more than 400,000 households benefited from the Cash Transfer for Orphans and Vulnerable Children (CT-OVC) programme. Each household received Sh2,000 per month for the three-month period, with funds accessible through contracted Payment Service Providers starting July 31, 2026.

Programme Objectives and Impact

The CT-OVC initiative aims to alleviate economic hardship among families caring for vulnerable children by providing financial support to meet essential needs such as education, healthcare, and nutrition. Introduced in 2004, the programme currently assists approximately 440,000 households nationwide.

Gender and Culture Cabinet Secretary Hanna Wendot Cheptumo emphasized the government's commitment to social protection, stating, "The Government remains committed to strengthening social protection by supporting vulnerable households, enhancing child protection, and improving access to education, healthcare, and nutrition for orphaned and vulnerable children."

Access and Support for Beneficiaries

  • Beneficiaries are advised to verify payment notifications from their Payment Service Providers before visiting payment agents.
  • Those experiencing difficulties accessing funds can seek help from Sub-County, County, or Regional Children’s Offices.
  • A toll-free support line, 1533, is available for assistance.

The State Department for Children Services also reported that preparations for the July 2026 payment cycle are underway, with beneficiaries to be notified once disbursements commence.

Broader Social Protection Framework

The CT-OVC programme is part of Kenya’s National Safety Net Programme, which includes other cash transfer initiatives such as the Older Persons Cash Transfer, Persons with Severe Disabilities Cash Transfer, and the Hunger Safety Net Programme. These efforts collectively aim to reduce poverty and improve access to critical services for vulnerable populations.