The Bungoma County government has launched a new social welfare initiative aimed at supporting vulnerable households facing economic hardship. The program, unveiled during a community event attended by local leaders and social services officers, seeks to provide direct assistance to low-income families, persons with disabilities, elderly caregivers, and households affected by loss of income. County officials described the initiative as a key step in strengthening social protection systems and ensuring no resident is left behind.
According to the Department of Social Services, the welfare program will combine cash support with community-based services, including food assistance, psychosocial support, and referrals to healthcare and education programs. Beneficiaries will be identified through local administrators, community health volunteers, and village elders to ensure transparency and accuracy. The rollout follows months of data collection across the county to map out households most in need. Officials noted that rising living costs and climate-related shocks—such as crop failures and flooding—have increased vulnerability among many rural families, making targeted support essential.
The initiative has been welcomed by residents and civil society groups, who say it provides renewed hope for families struggling to meet basic needs. Community leaders praised the county for prioritizing social protection, with many expressing optimism that the program will improve household stability and reduce pressure on informal support systems. As implementation begins, the county government plans to monitor progress closely and expand coverage over time. For many families in Bungoma, the new welfare program marks more than just economic relief—it represents a pathway to dignity, resilience, and long-term social wellbeing.