Cash Transfers in Kenya

This program expands the use of conditional cash transfers to protect girls’ education in refugee and host communities in Kenya during periods of crisis, including COVID-19-related school closures. Implemented in Kakuma Refugee Camp, Dadaab, and Kalobeyei Settlement with support from UK Aid and Global Affairs Canada, the initiative provides monthly financial transfers—primarily to women—on the condition that girls maintain regular school attendance. The program is designed to reduce household economic pressures that contribute to school dropout, early marriage, and gender-based violence, particularly in highly marginalized contexts such as Turkana County.

Cash transfers are delivered through bank or mobile money systems and are complemented by remedial education, radio programming, community mobilization, psychosocial support, and life skills training. During the pandemic, the program temporarily broadened eligibility criteria and increased transfer coverage to reach more vulnerable families, while using SMS and hotline systems to maintain communication and accountability. By combining financial support with education-focused conditions and community engagement, the program aims to sustain girls’ enrollment, strengthen their protection, and improve their long-term transition to further education and work.