Background paper
This background paper examines the socioeconomic impacts of Covid-19 in Kenya during the early stages of the pandemic. It analyses how containment measures and economic disruptions have affected livelihoods, employment, food security, housing and access to essential services, with a particular focus on people living in poverty and other vulnerable groups.
Drawing on national survey data and secondary sources, the paper reviews the effects of the pandemic across key sectors, including the labour market, public transport, housing and food systems. It highlights sharp declines in labour-force participation, rising living costs, increased food insecurity and growing difficulties in meeting basic expenses such as rent.
The paper also reviews the Government of Kenya’s health, social protection and fiscal response measures, assessing their scope and potential to mitigate the socioeconomic impacts of the crisis. It concludes by identifying priority areas for policy action to support recovery, protect vulnerable populations and strengthen resilience to future shocks.
