The Kenyan government has announced a mandatory biometric verification exercise for all beneficiaries of the Inua Jamii cash transfer programme. The move targets over 1.7 million vulnerable Kenyans receiving monthly stipends of Ksh2,000. It aims to confirm eligibility and remove ghost beneficiaries from the system.
The Labour Ministry launched the Proof of Life exercise on May 13, 2026. Labour Principal Secretary Joseph Motari stated that the initiative will use fingerprint and facial recognition to verify that beneficiaries and caregivers are alive and eligible.
The verification will run across all counties from June 1 to July 31, 2026. Beneficiaries must attend designated centres with their national identity cards. Caretakers of those unable to travel should contact local social protection officers.
Motari warned that non-participation could lead to delays or suspension of payments. The Inua Jamii programme supports elderly persons, people with disabilities and other vulnerable groups through monthly cash transfers.
