Kenya’s village elders are set to benefit from a new welfare package announced by President William Ruto. As part of the initiative aimed at strengthening grassroots leadership, more than 106,000 village elders across the country will receive a monthly stipend of KSh 3,000.

The announcement was made at State House during an engagement with grassroots leaders. Under the new package, village elders and their families will also receive health insurance coverage through the Social Health Authority (SHA).

To improve communication and service delivery, each village elder will receive leadership and digital literacy training and be provided with a smartphone. In addition to the monthly stipend, chiefs and assistant chiefs will receive promotions, while budget allocations for their offices will be increased.

Speaking during the event, President William Ruto said the initiative is intended to recognize the important role village elders play in community leadership, mobilization, and the implementation of government programs.

The President also said the government remains committed to implementing Article 43 of Kenya’s Constitution, which guarantees every Kenyan access to healthcare, education, social security, clean water, housing, and freedom from hunger.

To improve service delivery at the grassroots level, the President said all village elders will undergo training. He urged them to serve their communities fairly, avoid corruption, protect vulnerable groups, and uphold integrity in carrying out their responsibilities.

“As we entrust you with more responsibilities, the government shall support you. From this month, every village elder shall receive a KSh 3,000 stipend,” the President said.

He also confirmed that the government will provide funding to purchase smartphones for all village elders.

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen urged village elders to help combat politically motivated incitement, tribalism, and the use of young people to cause violence, particularly during political events.

The new welfare package marks a significant policy shift for village elders, who have long served as a link between the government and local communities. Besides supporting government programs, they also play an important role in dispute resolution and community security.

The government says the initiative is intended to strengthen grassroots administration while improving support for village elders as they continue carrying out their responsibilities across the country.