Hundreds of elderly citizens in Igembe South Constituency in Meru County thronged a local Safaricom shop to register their SIM cards, following the government’s directive to shift cash transfer payments to M-Pesa through the e-Citizen platform.
The move is part of the government’s broader digital transformation, aimed at streamlining service delivery and reducing logistical challenges for vulnerable groups.
Many senior citizens, some accompanied by relatives, queued for hours to ensure they complied with the registration requirement.
Speaking on the development, Igembe South Constituency Social Protection Officer, Victor Murithi urged the senior citizens to embrace the shift, noting that the transition from bank payments to M-Pesa will be a game changer.
“This initiative will eliminate the hassle of long and costly trips they used to make to banks. Beneficiaries will now receive their funds directly on their phones, making access to cash transfers easier and safer. They will also be able to receive the money in the comfort of their homes without having to travel long distances,” the officer stated.
According to Murithi, the new payment system is expected to enhance efficiency and transparency in the administration of government stipends under the Inua Jamii program.
However, some elderly individuals expressed concern over their ability to navigate mobile money transactions as many have never handled a mobile phone before, others with severe disabilities, such as total blindness fear that they may struggle to access their funds without assistance.
“I have never used a mobile phone in my life. I don’t know how to withdraw money. What if I press the wrong button and lose everything?” lamented Mzee Johana Nkubito, an 82-year-old Inua Jamii beneficiary.
The officer further urged all senior citizens under the social protection program to complete their SIM registration to avoid disruptions in their payments.
By Kamanja Maeria