Refugees in Kenya now to access NSSF’s Haba Haba savings plan

Refugees in Kenya now to access NSSF’s Haba Haba savings plan

The launch of the new initiative for the refugees comes after the ILO conducted research on the NSSF Haba Haba product.

It was a historic moment for refugees in Kenya after the Haba Haba savings plan that brings social security for refugees was Wednesday unveiled as part of a wider socioeconomic inclusion and empowerment for the displaced persons.

Haba Haba savings plan was launched in 2019 by the National Social Security Fund (NSSF) for the informal sector. Members save at least Sh25 per day and after five years of consistent contributions, one can withdraw 50 per cent of their contributions.

According to the Department of Refugee Services (DRS), the Haba Haba product will now be accessible to refugees in Kenya.

"It is a powerful step towards inclusion, stability and resilience for everyone," stated the department on its X platform.

Speaking at the launch, the Commissioner for Refugee Services John said Kenya is committed to supporting refugees through both compassion and respect for the law.

Representatives from the DRS, NSSF, Danish Refugee Council (DRC), the International Labour Organisation (ILO), and the United Nations High Commission for Refugees-Kenya participated in the luncheon of the new chapter that brings social security for the refugees.

The launch of the new initiative for the refugees comes after the ILO conducted research on the NSSF Haba Haba plan to assess its design and how to include refugee and migrant workers in Kenya.

The study also identified challenges that prevent refugees and migrant workers from taking up social security schemes like Haba Haba.

Reader Comments

Stay ahead of the news! Click ‘Yes, Thanks’ to receive breaking stories and exclusive updates directly to your device. Be the first to know what’s happening.