The Kenyan government, through the Ministry of Interior, is advancing a policy to formally incorporate village elders into the National Government Administration Infrastructure. This initiative aims to recognize and remunerate these grassroots leaders for their pivotal role in community governance.

Historically, village elders, known locally as “wazee wa mtaa,” have served as volunteers, assisting Chiefs and Assistant Chiefs in overseeing villages. Their responsibilities include resolving disputes, promoting community development, and facilitating government programs at the local level. To acknowledge their contributions, the Ministry proposes a phased implementation of monthly allowances, starting at Ksh2,000, with the potential to increase up to Ksh7,000, depending on economic conditions.

In August 2024, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki presented the National Government Coordination (Amendment) Bill, which seeks to amend the National Government Coordination Act of 2013. The proposed amendments aim to officially recognize village elders as National Government Administrative Officers and establish a structured framework for their roles and responsibilities. This includes setting criteria for recruitment, defining duties, and outlining terms of engagement.

The policy also addresses the financial implications of compensating village elders. With approximately 72,000 elders across over 106,000 villages, the proposed stipends are estimated to cost the government between Ksh3.9 billion and Ksh7.09 billion annually, depending on the allowance amount. This investment underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing grassroots governance and community development.

To ensure public participation, the Ministry has invited citizens to submit their views on the proposed legislation and the National Government Village Administration Policy. The public has until June 6 to provide feedback, which will be considered before the finalization and implementation of the policy.