Beneficiaries of the Hunger Safety Net Programme (HSNP) in Marsabit Central have decried delays in cash transfers, saying the prolonged wait has left vulnerable households struggling to meet basic needs.
Residents say the delays have affected their ability to buy food, access healthcare, and meet other essential expenses.
Beneficiaries staged a protest in Marsabit Town, calling on the government and implementing agencies to expedite the release of funds.
The interruptions come amid wider concerns over HSNP disbursements, previously linked to funding and liquidity challenges.
However, relief is in sight. Johna Samana, HSNP Marsabit County Director, has confirmed that payments will begin next week.
Speaking during a radio interview, Samana apologized for the delay, which he attributed to the late release of funds by the National Government.
He said the money has now been received in the National Drought Management Authority (NDMA) account, urging beneficiaries to remain calm as payments are being processed.
The first group of beneficiaries will start receiving payments from next week, with each household getting a 2-month transfer in this cycle.
He urged beneficiaries to remain patient as disbursements resume.
The HSNP provides regular cash transfers to vulnerable households in Kenya’s arid and semi-arid counties, including Marsabit, to strengthen food security and cushion families against drought and poverty.
