Effect of Core Design Features of the Unconditional Cash Transfer Program on Poverty Reduction among Households in Turkana Central Sub-County, Kenya

This study examines the effect of core design features of unconditional cash transfer (UCT) programs on poverty reduction among households in Turkana Central Sub-County, Kenya. Using a mixed-methods approach, the research analyzed data from 260 UCT beneficiaries. Findings reveal a significant negative relationship between the effectiveness of core design features and poverty levels (? = -0.628, p < 0.001), indicating that well-designed UCT programs can substantially contribute to poverty reduction. The study highlights the importance of regular, predictable transfers, appropriate targeting mechanisms, and sustainable program design in maximizing impact. However, challenges related to productive use of transfers, awareness of sustainability mechanisms, and beneficiary participation in program design were identified. Recommendations include optimizing transfer amounts and frequency, enhancing beneficiary support systems, improving communication strategies, and establishing robust feedback mechanisms. The study contributes to the literature on UCTs and poverty reduction in arid and semi-arid regions, supporting the Theory of Change framework in understanding how UCT design features contribute to poverty reduction outcomes.