Russian Studies in Law and PoliticsRussian Studies in Law and PoliticsRussian Studies in Law and Politics2576-96342998-8284Science and Innovation Center Publishing House39254210.12731/2576-9634-2025-9-4-255YPLTJHPublic AdministrationГосударственное управлениеResearch ArticleA review of strategies to expand access to social assistance programs for children in Kenyahttps://orcid.org/0000-0002-2477-054XMusembiTeresia Y.
Russian Federation
traceycecil@gmail.comRussian University of Transport (MIIT)301220259416217610032026Copyright ©; 2025, Musembi T.Y.Copyright ©; 2025, Musembi T.2025Musembi T.Y.Musembi T.https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0https://journals.rcsi.science/2576-9634/article/view/392542

Background. In Kenya, a significant number of families live in abject poverty which subjects 47.7% of 21.8 million children in Kenya to several vulnerabilities including malnutrition and lack of education.

Purpose. The aim of this study is to assess strategies aimed at expanding access to social assistance programs for children in Kenya. There exist gaps in terms of coverage and the current study seeks to come up with strategies on how to scale up social assistance in Kenya, an area that has not been sufficiently explored.

Materials and methods. The study used a narrative review method in order to gather qualitative data on social assistance for children in Kenya. Thematic synthesis design was used to analyze the data collected. This allowed the researcher to evaluate, review and summarize the information while carrying out triangulation from various sources in order to come up with evidence-based conclusions.

The results of this study show existence of major geographical gaps in terms of implementation of various social assistance programs due to poor coordination. Lack of access to the programs by eligible children is also evident as a result of errors when selecting target groups.

Conclusion. The current study recommends policy and legal reforms directed towards proper implementation and enhanced community engagement. Strategies aimed at expanding access to social protection for children in Kenya ought to be child-sensitive and rights-based in nature.

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