Social protection services reach informal workers in Changamwe, Kenya

MOMBASA (ILO NEWS) - Informal economy workers in Kenya are gaining improved access to social protection services through outreach initiatives that bring services closer to communities.

In Changamwe, Mombasa, a Social Protection Coverage Fair connected workers in the informal economy with essential services, including health insurance, pension schemes and occupational safety and health support.

For many workers, access to these services has long been limited by distance, complex procedures and lack of information.

Fredrick Otieno, Chairperson of the Changamwe Jua Kali Association, has seen these challenges firsthand. Members of the association frequently approached him with concerns about healthcare costs, savings options and workplace injuries, often without clear guidance on where to seek support.

The fair, supported through a project funded by the People’s Republic of China on extending social protection coverage to workers in the informal economy, and a United Nations joint programme led by the International Labour Organization, UNICEF and other partners, aimed to address these gaps.

By bringing multiple service providers together in one location, the initiative enabled workers to access information and services directly within their community.

“We are very happy to have these services brought closer to the people,” Fredrick said. “Many of our members struggle to access health insurance and pension services. Today, that is changing.”

During the two-day event, workers received support on a range of issues, including registration for health insurance, information on pension schemes such as the NSSF Haba Haba product, and guidance on reporting workplace injuries.

More than 200 people accessed services, with many registering on site. Health screenings were also provided, helping identify previously untreated conditions.

The fair also demonstrated the value of collaboration among social protection institutions. Initial engagement with partners, supported by advocacy from the Federation of Kenya Employers, helped strengthen coordination and participation.

The experience highlighted an important lesson: bringing services directly to communities can significantly improve access for workers in the informal economy.

For Fredrick, the impact was clear.

“We finally feel seen,” he said.

As Kenya continues efforts to extend social protection coverage, initiatives such as these fairs illustrate how targeted outreach can support more inclusive and responsive systems.