Government officials rejected findings from the Kenya Human Rights Commission calling for the elimination of the Hustler Fund program. Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya accused the commission of political bias and failure to consult relevant authorities before publishing their assessment. The ministry defended the initiative by citing nine million active users and total disbursements reaching 72 billion shillings since launch. Officials questioned the timing and motives behind the critical evaluation. Authorities emphasized widespread accessibility across all demographic groups.
The human rights organization published research titled Failing the Hustlers that condemned the lending program as economically unsustainable. Commission data revealed default rates climbing to 68.3 percent by late 2022. Financial analysis showed losses of 340 shillings for every 500 shillings distributed through the system. Researchers calculated total taxpayer costs at 71.5 percent when factoring in operational expenses and treasury rates. The report characterized the program as a disguised financial failure rather than a genuine economic empowerment.
The human rights organization published research titled Failing the Hustlers that condemned the lending program as economically unsustainable. Commission data revealed default rates climbing to 68.3 percent by late 2022. Financial analysis showed losses of 340 shillings for every 500 shillings distributed through the system. Researchers calculated total taxpayer costs at 71.5 percent when factoring in operational expenses and treasury rates. The report characterized the program as a disguised financial failure rather than a genuine economic empowerment.
