Cash Crunch Threatens Hunger Safety Net Payments in Northern Kenya

Thousands of vulnerable households in northern Kenya could miss out on critical cash transfers later this year following a major funding shortfall in the government’s social protection programme.

Appearing before the National Assembly’s Departmental Committee on Regional Development at the Parliament Buildings, Principal Secretary for ASALs and Regional Development, Kello Harsama, warned that the Hunger Safety Net Programme (HSNP) faces a deficit of Sh1.556 billion.

The programme, which supports food-insecure households in arid and semi-arid regions, requires Sh5.475 billion for the current financial year but has only been allocated Sh3.919 billion.

Harsama cautioned that unless the National Treasury intervenes, beneficiaries will not receive payments for October, November, and December.

“Without this support, we will not be able to cover the payroll cycles for the last quarter of the year. Beneficiaries will not be paid,” he told the committee chaired by Sigor MP Peter Lochakapong.

The PS revealed that the department had already accessed Sh350 million under Article 223 of the Constitution for emergency drought response measures, including water trucking and borehole rehabilitation. However, he noted the funds are insufficient to meet overall needs.

The department is also burdened by pending bills totaling Sh11.5 billion, with the Lake Basin Development Authority accounting for Sh9.5 billion. Additionally, Sh53 million owed to the National Cereals and Produce Board for past food supplies remains unpaid.

Several key development projects have stalled due to lack of funding. Among them is the Ewaso Ng’iro tannery and leather factory, launched by President William Ruto in May 2025, which has yet to receive its promised Sh400 million seed capital. The Oloitoktok tomato processing plant in Kajiado County has also remained incomplete for three years, denying farmers access to storage and processing facilities.

Harsama painted a dire picture of the department’s operations, revealing that after funding its agencies, only Sh65 million remains—far below what is needed to run daily activities.

“We have no allocation for foreign travel, yet the Cabinet Secretary is expected to represent the country in key forums on climate change and peace,” he said, adding that even basic logistics such as fuel and vehicle maintenance are underfunded.

Cabinet Secretary for East African Community, ASALs, and Regional Development, Beatrice Askul Moe, also highlighted operational and security challenges facing her office. She told MPs that limited transport capacity has hindered her ability to carry out official duties effectively.

The CS cited a recent incident in Nairobi where her vehicle was involved in an accident, forcing her to remain inside until police arrived due to safety concerns. She called for additional vehicles, improved office facilities, and timely payment of staff salaries.

Committee chair Lochakapong assured officials that their concerns would be considered as Parliament reviews budget allocations. The committee is expected to compile a report with recommendations for submission to the House.

The funding gap now raises concerns over the sustainability of Kenya’s social protection programmes, particularly for communities already grappling with food insecurity and recurring drought.