The National Government Affirmative Action Fund (NGAAF) in Kenya was established to address the needs of vulnerable groups such as women, youth, persons with disabilities (PWDs), children, and the elderly. Its creation is tied to Kenya’s commitment to promoting social justice and inclusivity, as outlined in the 2010 Constitution. This Constitution emphasized affirmative action as a means to ensure equity and reduce the disparities that have historically affected marginalized groups.

NGAAF was officially created in 2015 through the Public Finance Management (Affirmative Action Social Development Fund) Regulations, 2015. The fund falls under the Ministry of Public Service, Youth, and Gender Affairs and is focused on addressing social and economic inequalities. It is designed to be a tool for empowering vulnerable communities and operates through county-based programs.

The fund’s main objectives are centered on implementing projects that uplift the welfare of targeted groups. NGAAF supports initiatives in education, health, economic empowerment, and social protection. These projects are managed by County Women Representatives, who oversee the fund’s distribution and ensure that the programs align with the needs of their communities.

Since its inception, NGAAF has supported various projects across Kenya’s 47 counties. This includes providing bursaries for needy students, funding small and medium enterprises (SMEs), and supporting infrastructure development in education and health. Through these efforts, the fund has helped bridge gender disparities and empower marginalized communities.

Despite its successes, NGAAF has faced several challenges. Concerns have been raised over the transparency and accountability of the fund, as well as the equitable distribution of resources. Some stakeholders have called for better oversight and increased community involvement in the decision-making processes to ensure the fund meets its intended goals.

In response to these challenges, there have been ongoing efforts to improve NGAAF’s governance. Reforms have focused on strengthening monitoring and evaluation frameworks, building the capacity of stakeholders, and increasing public awareness about the fund’s programs and services. These steps aim to enhance the fund’s effectiveness and ensure that it delivers on its mandate.

Overall, NGAAF plays a crucial role in advancing social and economic equity in Kenya. Its history reflects the country’s broader commitment to affirmative action and inclusive development, as it continues to support vulnerable and marginalized groups in achieving their potential.

Eligibility for funding under the National Government Affirmative Action Fund (NGAAF) in Kenya is primarily targeted at vulnerable and marginalized groups. The following categories of people and groups are eligible to apply for funding:

Women: NGAAF focuses on empowering women, particularly those who are economically disadvantaged or face social challenges. Women’s groups and individual women can apply for funding to support income-generating projects, education, and other initiatives aimed at improving their livelihoods.

Youth: Young people, particularly those who are unemployed or involved in community projects, are eligible for NGAAF funding. The fund supports youth-led initiatives that promote skills development, entrepreneurship, and other forms of economic empowerment.

Persons with Disabilities (PWDs): Individuals with disabilities and organizations representing PWDs can apply for NGAAF funding. The fund aims to support projects that enhance accessibility, inclusion, and economic empowerment for PWDs.

Children: Vulnerable children, including orphans and those from disadvantaged backgrounds, are eligible for NGAAF support. This includes funding for education through bursaries and other forms of assistance that promote the well-being of children.

Elderly: Senior citizens, especially those who are economically disadvantaged or in need of social protection, can benefit from NGAAF programs. The fund provides support for projects that enhance the welfare of the elderly, including healthcare and social support initiatives.

Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) and Self-Help Groups: NGAAF also funds projects by CBOs and self-help groups that focus on improving the livelihoods of vulnerable groups. These organizations can apply for funding to implement community-driven initiatives that address social and economic challenges.

Marginalized and Vulnerable Individuals: Beyond the specific categories above, NGAAF also supports other marginalized and vulnerable individuals who may not fall strictly within these groups but still face significant social or economic disadvantages.

To apply for funding, eligible individuals and groups must submit their proposals through the office of the County Women Representative, who oversees the allocation of NGAAF funds at the county level. Proposals should align with NGAAF’s objectives of promoting social and economic empowerment.

To apply for funding under the National Government Affirmative Action Fund (NGAAF) in Kenya, follow these steps:

1. Identify Your Eligibility:
Ensure that you or your group falls under one of the eligible categories, such as women, youth, persons with disabilities (PWDs), children, elderly, community-based organizations (CBOs), or other vulnerable and marginalized individuals.

2. Develop a Proposal:
Prepare a clear and detailed proposal that outlines the project or initiative for which you are seeking funding. Your proposal should include the following:

Project Title: A concise name for your project.
Objectives: The goals you aim to achieve through the project.
Target Group: The specific beneficiaries of the project (e.g., women, youth, PWDs).
Activities: The steps or actions you plan to take to achieve your objectives.
Budget: A breakdown of the funds required for the project, including specific costs for each activity.
Expected Outcomes: The positive impact you anticipate from the project.
Sustainability Plan: How you plan to sustain the project after the initial funding.
3. Submit the Proposal:
Once your proposal is ready, submit it to the office of your local County Women Representative. This office is responsible for overseeing the distribution of NGAAF funds within your county. You may need to visit the office in person or use other channels provided by the County Women Representative for submission.

4. Attend Community Forums (Optional but Beneficial):
Engage in community forums or public participation meetings organized by the County Women Representative or NGAAF officials. These forums often provide insights into the application process and offer opportunities to discuss your project with decision-makers.

5. Follow Up:
After submitting your proposal, follow up with the County Women Representative’s office to check the status of your application. Ensure that you provide any additional information or documentation requested by the NGAAF team.

6. Await Notification:
If your application is successful, you will be notified by the County Women Representative’s office. Successful applicants will receive funding as per the approved budget in their proposals.

7. Implement the Project and Report:
Once you receive the funding, proceed with implementing your project as outlined in your proposal. Ensure you keep records of your activities and expenditures. You will likely be required to report on the progress of your project and how the funds were utilized.

By following these steps, eligible applicants can access NGAAF funding to support projects that align with the fund’s mission of promoting social and economic empowerment among vulnerable and marginalized groups in Kenya.

The National Government Affirmative Action Fund (NGAAF) in Kenya supports a wide range of projects aimed at improving the welfare of vulnerable and marginalized groups. The types of projects NGAAF typically funds include:

1. Education Support:
Bursaries and Scholarships: NGAAF provides financial assistance to needy students from disadvantaged backgrounds, including orphans and vulnerable children, to help them access education at various levels.
Infrastructure Development: The fund supports the construction and renovation of educational facilities such as classrooms, libraries, and laboratories in underserved areas.
2. Economic Empowerment:
Income-Generating Activities: NGAAF funds projects that promote entrepreneurship and self-reliance among women, youth, and persons with disabilities. This includes supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs), cooperatives, and self-help groups.
Vocational Training: The fund supports vocational and technical training programs that equip beneficiaries with skills to enhance their employability or start their businesses.
3. Health and Social Protection:
Health Infrastructure: NGAAF funds the construction and improvement of health facilities, particularly in rural and marginalized areas. This includes clinics, maternity wards, and other essential health services.
Healthcare Support: The fund also supports initiatives that improve access to healthcare for vulnerable groups, such as maternal and child health programs, HIV/AIDS awareness, and services for persons with disabilities.
Social Welfare Programs: NGAAF supports projects that provide social protection for the elderly, orphans, and other vulnerable groups, such as food security initiatives and housing projects.
4. Water and Sanitation Projects:
NGAAF funds the development of clean water sources, including boreholes and water tanks, particularly in areas with water scarcity. It also supports sanitation projects that improve hygiene and reduce waterborne diseases in communities.
5. Environmental Conservation:
Afforestation and Reforestation: The fund supports environmental conservation projects, including tree planting and reforestation initiatives aimed at combating climate change and promoting sustainable land use.
Waste Management: NGAAF funds projects that promote proper waste disposal and recycling, particularly in urban areas.
6. Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Prevention and Support:
GBV Awareness Programs: NGAAF supports initiatives that raise awareness about gender-based violence, its prevention, and the legal rights of victims.
Support Services for Survivors: The fund also provides resources for counseling, legal aid, and safe spaces for survivors of GBV.
7. Community Infrastructure Development:
Public Amenities: NGAAF funds the construction of community centers, marketplaces, and other public amenities that benefit vulnerable groups by providing spaces for social and economic activities.
Transport Infrastructure: The fund also supports the construction and maintenance of roads and bridges in underserved areas to improve accessibility.
These projects are designed to address the specific needs of vulnerable groups and promote equitable development across Kenya. The focus is on creating sustainable impacts that enhance the livelihoods and well-being of beneficiaries.

Yes, the National Government Affirmative Action Fund (NGAAF) in Kenya follows specific criteria for selecting projects to be funded. These criteria help ensure that the projects align with the fund’s objectives and effectively address the needs of vulnerable and marginalized groups. Key criteria for project selection include:

1. Alignment with NGAAF Objectives:
Projects must align with NGAAF’s core mandate of promoting social and economic empowerment among vulnerable groups, such as women, youth, persons with disabilities (PWDs), children, and the elderly. The proposed projects should contribute to reducing inequalities and improving the welfare of these groups.
2. Target Beneficiaries:
The project must directly benefit the intended vulnerable groups. Preference is given to projects that have a clear focus on improving the lives of women, youth, PWDs, or other marginalized individuals or communities.
3. Community Impact and Relevance:
Projects are evaluated based on their potential impact on the community. The selected projects should address pressing social or economic issues within the community and have the potential to create positive, sustainable change. The relevance of the project to the specific needs of the community is a critical factor.
4. Feasibility and Sustainability:
Projects should be practical and achievable within the available resources and time frame. The proposal should demonstrate a clear plan for implementation, including realistic goals and a budget that reflects the costs involved. Additionally, projects that have a sustainability plan—showing how they will continue to benefit the community after NGAAF funding ends—are more likely to be selected.
5. Innovation and Creativity:
NGAAF encourages innovative approaches to solving community problems. Projects that introduce new ideas, methods, or technologies that can effectively address the challenges faced by vulnerable groups may be given priority.
6. Inclusivity and Participation:
Projects that promote inclusivity and ensure broad community participation are favored. Proposals should demonstrate how the project will involve the target beneficiaries in planning, implementation, and decision-making processes. This ensures that the project is community-driven and that the beneficiaries have a sense of ownership.
7. Scalability and Replicability:
Projects that have the potential to be scaled up or replicated in other areas are often prioritized. If a project demonstrates success in one community, it should have the potential to be expanded or adapted to benefit other regions facing similar challenges.
8. Accountability and Transparency:
Proposals should include a clear framework for monitoring and evaluation to ensure accountability and transparency in the use of NGAAF funds. This includes providing regular reports on project progress and how funds are being utilized. Projects that demonstrate a commitment to transparency are more likely to receive funding.
9. Compliance with Legal and Policy Frameworks:
Projects must comply with relevant national laws and policies, including environmental regulations, labor laws, and any other applicable standards. Proposals that align with broader government policies and strategies, such as Kenya Vision 2030 or the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), are often viewed more favorably.
10. Urgency and Timeliness:
Projects addressing urgent needs or crises, such as disaster relief or emergency interventions for vulnerable groups, may receive special consideration. The timeliness of the project in responding to immediate challenges within the community is also a key criterion.
By adhering to these criteria, NGAAF ensures that the projects it funds are impactful, sustainable, and effectively address the needs of Kenya’s most vulnerable populations.