Extending Social Protection Coverage to Workers in the Informal Economy
Extending Social Protection Coverage to Workers in the Informal Economy
The Ministry of Labour and Social Protection, in partnership with the International Labour Organization (ILO), has officially launched the “Extending Social Protection Coverage to Workers in the Informal Economy in Lao PDR and Kenya and Leveraging Digital Transformation: through South-South Cooperation” Project.
This is an extension of Social Protection Coverage project funded by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security of the People’s Republic of China.
Extending Social Protection Coverage to Workers in the Informal Economy
Speaking during the event, Labour and Social Protection Cabinet Secretary, Dr. Alfred Mutua noted that “This initiative seeks to leverage South-South cooperation to enhance policy design, administrative governance, and operational efficiency in social protection systems.”
“I am also aware that the cooperation between the above two entities will bring substantial experience and proven strategies to this project with the ultimate aim of expanding Social Protection to the unreached in Society in Kenya.” He added
The State Department Social Protection and Senior Citizen Affairs Principal Secretary, Mr. Joseph Motari said “This launch follows closely on last year’s launch of Kenya’s strategy to expand social protection coverage to the informal and rural economy. We have since developed an implementation matrix, and I believe this strategy is timely, particularly as we strive to ensure no one is left behind.”
Extending Social Protection Coverage to Workers in the Informal Economy
PS Motari added that “Despite positive strides like the Inua Jamii Cash Transfer Program, we are aware that gaps remain—particularly in reaching workers in the rural and informal economy. Extending social protection to this group is not just an obligation, but a necessity if we are to realize the transformative goals we aspire to.”
The Social protection is not a privilege but a right that should be extended to all, including those working in the informal economy, which forms the backbone of many economies worldwide, particularly in Kenya and Lao PDR.
Extending Social Protection Coverage to Workers in the Informal Economy
In her speech, The Chief Executive Officer, Federation of Kenya Employers (FKE) Ms Jacqueline Mugo said , “The challenge we face is not just about policy but about financing these noble aspirations. For a social protection system to succeed, there must be a concerted effort from all stakeholders, including the government, employers, workers, and civil society. Without sustainable funding mechanisms, these goals will remain just that—goals.”
