Members of the National Assembly have rallied behind a Bill seeking to recognize and professionalize the social work profession in Kenya,

The Institute of Social Work Professionals Bill, (National Assembly Bill No. 17 of 2023) seeks to establish the Institute of Social Work Professionals, which will regulate the training, registration, and licensing of social workers. It also outlines provisions on discipline, financial matters, and penalties for violations

The Bill sponsored by Hon. Johnstone Kimilu proposes to regulate the social work profession in Kenya, establishing an institute for social workers, and ensuring professional recognition, training, and licensing.

While addressing the House, Hon. Kimilu acknowledged public participation in shaping the Bill, saying, "I want to thank Kenyans that contributed via public participation."

"This Bill defines social work as the assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and evaluation of societal issues through specialized knowledge in health, education, and social services. Key provisions include the establishment of the Institute of Social Work Professionals, a regulatory council, an examination board, and a disciplinary framework for practitioners," Hon. Kimuli added.

Legislators supported the Bill, emphasizing its importance in elevating the profession and providing structured remuneration for social workers who play a key role in communities.

Hon. Peter Masara urged social workers to back the Bill, saying, "Let us support this Bill to enable Kenyans in the field to enjoy their profession. This Bill will enable social workers in Kenya to work even internationally. Giving them a practicing license will enrich the professionals and protect standards and quality of training."

On her part, Hon. Millie Odhiambo passionately supported the Bill, emphasizing the need for regulations. "It is important we have regulations for social workers to regulate the way they operate. When you talk about social work, they need to be recognized and protected. Social workers really support the community. This is an excellent Bill," she said.

The Chairperson of the Committee on Social Protection, Hon. Hillary Kosgei, termed the Bill as long overdue. "As the Committee of Social Protection, we sat and went through this Bill. I wish to urge the House to pass this Bill so that social workers have their board and enrich professional work," he said.

Hon. Tom Odege highlighted Kenya’s slow progress in recognizing social work as a profession. "As a country, we have lagged behind in social work. In developed countries, social work has been recognized and is protected. In the education sector, social workers play a key role. At the community level, they offer very key services that are needed by our communities. Social workers help and support at the family level. This Bill will professionalize the work, protect, and enhance the services," he noted.

Hon. Timothy Torotich described the Bill as progressive, saying, "This legislation is progressive, and it seeks to recognize and protect social workers in this country."

Hon. Rachel Nyamai emphasized the importance of the Bill in ensuring professionalism and ethical standards.

"It is important to note that in all other professions, this Bill intends to recognize and regulate the profession. By coming up with this Bill, social workers will have a voice, their work will be valued, and they will be properly enumerated. It will also allow ethical standards and penalties for unethical behavior, especially when dealing with vulnerable groups," she said.

Hon. Babu Owino noted that the Bill would ensure fair remuneration. "Through this Bill, social workers will be remunerated well. Currently, their allowances are unstructured and very little," he stated.

Hon. Lydia Haika hailed the Bill as timely, saying, "A social worker supports the community. They help the community overcome challenges. They serve a critical role in the community and they advise and advocate for change in the community. It is high time they are recognized and supported."

The Bill is expected to strengthen the sector by ensuring that only qualified and licensed individuals practice as social workers, enhancing service delivery and professional accountability.

"The impact of social workers in the community can not be understated. In the Bill formalizing the work of professionals and creating a framework through registration and licensing. We need a database of certified social workers in the country," stated Hon. Eve Obara.

If passed, social workers will be required to obtain practicing certificates to work in the profession legally.