The government through the Ministry of Interior has announced plans to compensate Village Elders by allocating them monthly allowances in a bid to strengthen governance at the grassroots level.
In a statement made on August 10, the Ministry revealed that it has drafted a legislative proposal to amend the National Government Coordination Act of 2013, aiming to officially recognize village elders in each administrative unit.
This initiative is expected to provide these community leaders, who have historically worked without pay, with a monthly stipend of Ksh 7,000.
It was highlighted that former Cabinet Secretary (CS) Kithure Kindiki while before the Senate Standing Committee on National Security, emphasized the importance of village elders, who have traditionally served as volunteers in grassroot governance.
“As the leaders closest to the people, village elders represent the government’s interests at the local level. They oversee villages and work under the guidance of Chiefs and Assistant Chiefs,” read the statement.
Kindiki Issues the Proposal Before the Senate Committe
“Despite their integral role in facilitating services and assisting the National Government at the village level, they have traditionally worked as volunteers without compensation.”
As a result, the former CS emphasized the need to support them through formal recognition and remuneration.
The proposed amendment will categorize villages as fundamental administrative units, allowing the government to establish criteria for their recognition and support.
“Once the Act is amended, the Ministry will introduce criteria for establishing villages based on population size, geographic area, and socio-cultural factors,” noted the statement.
Also Read: Govt Announces Fresh Registration of 500,000 Inua Jamii Beneficiaries
PS Raymond Omollo Highlights the Importance of Village Elders
PS Raymond Omollo, underscored the crucial role of village elders in community engagement and decision-making during a consultative review at the Second National Executive Retreat in Naivasha, Nakuru County.
He pointed out that village elders are instrumental in rural community development, contributing to awareness initiatives, dispute resolution, and the advancement of social services through programs like the Nyumba Kumi Initiative.
“Village elders play a vital role in our communities, and it is essential that we recognize their efforts,” said PS Omollo.
“The Government, under H.E. President William Ruto, is committed to enhancing regulatory effectiveness and improving the provision of public goods and services, and village elders are key partners in achieving these goals.”
Details of the Proposed Policy Framework
In line with this recognition, the proposed policy framework recommends a phased implementation of monthly allowances of up to Ksh. 7, 000 for village elders across the country.
Additionally, the plan includes a starting stipend of Ksh. 2,000, similar to the disbursement provided to elders through the Inua Jamii Programme.
Also Read: Why Chiefs & Village Elders Want Their Powers Increased
Also, the proposal addresses concerns about recruitment of village elders covering various administrative aspects.
These include terms of engagement, functions of village elders, recruitment criteria, remuneration schemes, termination processes, disciplinary actions, and conditions for vacating office.
If approved, this initiative will not only compensate village elders but also formalize their roles as National Government Administrative Officers, enhancing their influence in community development and decision-making processes.
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