72,000 Kenyan Village Elders to Receive Sh7,000 Monthly in Proposed Plan

The Kenyan government is considering providing a monthly allowance of up to Sh7,000 to village elders, as proposed by the Interior Ministry led by Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki.

The proposal was highlighted during the Second National Executive Retreat in Naivasha, where Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo emphasized the integral part village elders play in community engagement and decision-making processes. These leaders have long been instrumental in rural development, contributing to dispute resolution, awareness campaigns, and the advancement of social services through initiatives like Nyumba Kumi. The Ministry's framework suggests a phased implementation of the allowance, beginning with a modest Sh2,000 monthly stipend. This initial amount aligns with disbursements under the Inua Jamii Programme and is viewed as a starting point, with potential increases up to Sh7,000 based on Kenya's economic conditions.

PS Omollo reiterates the government's commitment to enhancing regulatory effectiveness and improving public service delivery. If approved, the stipend would benefit an estimated 72,000 elders across 106,072 villages in Kenya. These individuals have traditionally served as volunteers, representing government interests at the local level and overseeing village affairs under the guidance of chiefs and assistant chiefs. The proposed allowance aims to formalize their role and provide much-needed support for their ongoing work. CS Kindiki has also addressed the Senate Standing Committee on National Security, Defence, and Foreign Relations, advocating for revisions to the National Government Coordination Act.

His proposal to designate villages as fundamental administrative units would further empower elders and formally recognize their critical services. The Ministry believes that compensating village elders will bolster grassroots governance and community development throughout the country. Historically, these leaders have wielded considerable influence and participated in numerous public committees within their jurisdictions, often without formal recognition or compensation. The proposed policy framework also addresses the recruitment of village elders, suggesting that allowances be determined by the Public Service Commission in consultation with the Salaries and Remuneration Commission.

This approach would enable the Ministry to assess the financial implications and present them to the National Treasury for budgetary allocation. Beyond financial support, the Ministry aims to enhance the operational capacity of village elders through training and resource provision. This comprehensive approach seeks to equip them with the necessary tools to effectively handle their responsibilities and contribute to overall community development.