Village elders across the country will begin receiving a monthly government allowance from August under a new programme aimed at recognising their role in local administration, community security and conflict resolution.
The announcement was made by the Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration Dr Raymond Omollo, during a public meeting in Rachuonyo North Sub-county in Homa Bay County.
Dr Omollo said the initiative was the first to provide village elders with formal financial support for their work at the grassroots level.
He said village elders had for many years helped resolve local disputes, mobilised communities to participate in government programmes and supported National Government Administration Officers (NGAO), but had received little formal recognition.
“The work carried out by village elders has been instrumental in maintaining peace and supporting government programmes in every part of the country. This initiative is a recognition of that service,” he said.
According to Dr Omollo, the first payment, covering July, will begin this week, with the allowance to be paid every month thereafter.
The principal secretary also highlighted several development projects in Homa Bay County.
He said nearly 20 road projects covering about 454 kilometres were under implementation, compared with three before the current administration took office.
Dr Omollo also urged residents to register with the Social Health Authority (SHA), saying this would enable them to benefit from the government’s healthcare reforms.
He commended community health promoters for raising awareness and supporting access to health services.
On youth employment, he said beneficiaries of the NYOTA programme were receiving skills training, financial support and business mentorship to help them establish enterprises.
Dr Omollo also called on Kenyans to take part in the national dialogue proposed by President William Ruto, saying inclusive discussions were important in addressing the country’s challenges and supporting development.
He said the government had made progress in implementing development projects and expanding opportunities across the country, while acknowledging that more remained to be done.
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