This policy brief critically assesses the role of Kenya’s Cash Transfer for Orphans and Vulnerable Children (CT-OVC) programme in improving educational outcomes for some of the country’s most disadvantaged children. Although primary education is free in Kenya, hidden costs such as travel, uniforms, and school materials continue to act as barriers — especially for orphans and vulnerable children (OVC).

Drawing on literature and national survey data, I found that while the CT-OVC has improved school enrolment and reduced child labour, many children still face inequities, especially in secondary education. The paper exploreshow conditionality in cash transfer design (e.g. linking funds to school attendance) might further enhance impact — butalso considers ethical and administrative trade-offs.

Key Recommendations:

Invest in research and evaluation to fill data gaps and strengthen policy design.

Continue and expand the CT-OVC programme.

Use community messaging instead of strict conditions.

Read the full paper here (PDF):