President William Ruto has announced a comprehensive support package for more than 106,000 village elders across the country, introducing a monthly stipend, smartphones, training programmes and health insurance cover under the Social Health Authority (SHA).
The President said the initiative is aimed at formally recognising the critical role village elders play in grassroots administration, community mobilisation and implementation of government programmes.
Speaking during a meeting with over 10,000 village elders at State House Nairobi on Tuesday, Ruto described their integration into the National Government Administration system as a significant milestone in strengthening service delivery at the community level.
“For many years, village elders have served communities with dedication. Their formal recognition will help bring government services closer to wananchi while strengthening grassroots governance,” he said.
Village elders to receive Ksh3,000 monthly
Beginning this month, every registered village elder will receive a monthly stipend of Ksh3,000, according to the President.
Ruto said the payment should not be viewed as a salary or reward, but rather as recognition of the essential public service village elders continue to provide.
He urged them to uphold integrity in their work by promoting peace, protecting vulnerable members of society, safeguarding public resources and serving all Kenyans without discrimination.
Smartphones, training and health cover
To improve communication and service delivery, the government will also provide smartphones to village elders, with funding to be included in the national budget.
The President said the devices will enhance communication between village administrators and government agencies while improving access to digital government services.
In addition, village elders will undergo leadership and administrative training to strengthen their capacity in handling community matters.
Ruto further announced that the National Treasury will finance medical insurance for village elders and their families under the Social Health Authority, ensuring they have access to healthcare services.
Elders urged to support national dialogue
The President also called on village elders to take part in public consultations on the proposed National Development Charter, saying the process should involve citizens from every part of the country.
He said the conversation should extend beyond government institutions to include every county, ward, village and household.
According to Ruto, the charter seeks to promote long-term national development while advancing constitutional rights, including access to healthcare, housing, clean water, education and social protection.
He added that Kenya’s democratic progress must be accompanied by economic opportunity, improved living standards and inclusive development.
Commitment to peaceful elections
The Head of State reiterated that the 2027 General Election would be conducted in a free, fair and peaceful environment.
He warned against intimidation, ethnic incitement and political violence, saying every Kenyan should be able to exercise their constitutional right to vote without fear.
“We will ensure every citizen participates freely in the electoral process, and no one will be allowed to threaten the peace or safety of others,” he said.
Leaders welcome initiative
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi praised the programme, saying it reflects the government’s commitment to strengthening grassroots administration.
ODM leader Oburu Oginga also welcomed the move, saying it was the first time village elders had received formal recognition and structured government support.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen urged the elders to help combat tribalism, hate speech and political incitement in their communities.
He also announced increased operational funding for chiefs and assistant chiefs, with allocations rising from Ksh30,000 to Ksh50,000 for chiefs and from Ksh15,000 to Ksh30,000 for assistant chiefs. Murkomen said village elders would also benefit from digital literacy and leadership training programmes as part of the government’s ongoing administrative reforms.
