By The News Booth Desk
Email: info.newsbooth@gmail.com
President William Ruto has unveiled a new government initiative that will see village elders across Kenya receive monthly stipends, a move aimed at bolstering grassroots administration. The announcement was made during a meeting held on August 4, 2026, at State House, Nairobi, where President Ruto addressed a gathering of village elders and chiefs. The President emphasized the government's commitment to recognizing and formalizing the role of village elders, who play a crucial part in local governance and community cohesion.
Under this new programme, each village elder will be entitled to a monthly stipend of Sh1,000. This financial support is part of a broader strategy to integrate village elders more effectively into the national and county government frameworks. The government has developed a comprehensive policy and legal framework to define the responsibilities of village elders and outline their collaboration with other levels of government. This initiative is expected to enhance the delivery of government services at the community level by leveraging the unique position of village elders as trusted local leaders.
In addition to the stipends, the programme includes digital training for the elders. This training aims to equip them with the necessary skills to improve coordination and facilitate the efficient delivery of services. The digital literacy component is crucial in today's increasingly digital world, where technology plays a significant role in governance and service delivery. By empowering village elders with digital skills, the government seeks to ensure that they can effectively communicate, report, and access digital government services.
President Ruto also announced that the government would extend Social Health Authority (SHA) cover to the village elders, their spouses, and children. This health cover is a significant step towards ensuring the well-being of those who serve at the grassroots level, acknowledging their contribution to the community's welfare.
Furthermore, the government will provide smartphones to the village elders. These devices are intended to support communication and improve the flow of information between the national government and village administrations. Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen highlighted that this programme would establish direct cooperation between the national government and village administrations, thereby enhancing security coordination and making it easier for residents to access public services.
The initiative underscores the government's recognition of the vital role that village elders play in maintaining social order and facilitating development at the grassroots level. By investing in their capacity and welfare, the government aims to strengthen the foundation of local governance and improve the overall quality of life for communities across Kenya.
