The Kenyan government is taking significant steps to acknowledge and enhance the role of village elders in governance and community development. A new policy framework has been proposed, aiming to provide a monthly allowance of up to Sh7,000 for village elders across the country. This initiative is seen as a crucial move to formalize and support the efforts of these community leaders, who have long played an essential role in the country’s grassroots governance.

The Role of Village Elders in Kenyan Society

Village elders, known as “wazee wa mtaa,” have historically been the cornerstone of community leadership in Kenya. These individuals are selected based on their tenure in the community, their knowledge of its members, their familiarity with the area, integrity, and experience. As the leaders closest to the people, village elders represent the government’s interests at the local level, overseeing villages under the guidance of Chiefs and Assistant Chiefs.

Their duties are vast and varied. They are instrumental in resolving disputes, promoting awareness of government initiatives, advancing development projects, and providing social services. Through the Nyumba Kumi Initiative, a community policing strategy, village elders have been pivotal in enhancing security and fostering cooperation among community members. Despite their integral role in facilitating services and assisting the National Government at the village level, these elders have traditionally worked as volunteers without any form of compensation.

Proposed Monthly Allowance and Policy Framework

Recognizing the critical role that village elders play in grassroots governance, the government has proposed a phased implementation of a monthly allowance for these community leaders. The allowance is expected to range from Sh2,000 to Sh7,000 per month, depending on Kenya’s economic conditions. The start-off stipend of Sh2,000 is commensurate with the disbursement given to elders in the Inua Jamii Programme, a government initiative that supports vulnerable older persons.

This proposed policy framework is part of a broader legislative initiative to amend the National Government Coordination Act of 2013. The amendment seeks to officially recognize village elders in each administrative unit, thereby formalizing their roles and providing them with legal recognition as government officers on special duty. The framework covers various aspects, including the terms of engagement, functions of village elders, recruitment criteria, remuneration schemes, termination processes, disciplinary actions, and conditions for vacating office.

The Government’s Commitment to Strengthening Grassroots Governance

On the sidelines of the Second National Executive Retreat in Naivasha, Nakuru County, Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration, Dr. Raymond Omollo, led senior security and administration officials in a consultative review focused on developing a framework for engaging village elders. Dr. Omollo emphasized the need to acknowledge the vital role of village elders in engaging citizens and facilitating decision-making processes.

“Village elders play a crucial role in our communities, and we must recognize their efforts. The government 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,” Dr. Omollo stated.

This approach will enable the Ministry of Interior and National Administration to evaluate the financial impact and present it to the National Treasury for budgetary allocation. The proposed policy framework is expected to provide a structured approach to the recruitment and management of village elders, ensuring that their contributions to community development are adequately compensated and supported.

Historical Context and the Importance of Village Elders

Throughout Kenya’s history, village elders have been instrumental in maintaining peace and order within communities. They have been the first point of contact for resolving disputes, whether they are related to land, family issues, or community conflicts. Their deep understanding of local customs, traditions, and social dynamics has made them indispensable in the governance structure at the grassroots level.

In the past, village elders were often appointed by local chiefs based on their standing in the community. They were respected figures, often elderly men who had lived in the community for many years and had earned the trust of the people. Their decisions were usually final, and they were seen as the custodians of community values and traditions.

However, as Kenya’s governance structures evolved, the role of village elders became less formalized. Despite their continued importance in community matters, they received little to no support from the government. This lack of formal recognition and compensation has often limited their ability to perform their duties effectively, particularly in areas that require coordination with government agencies or access to resources.

The Need for Formal Recognition and Compensation

The proposed monthly allowance for village elders is not just a financial gesture; it is a formal acknowledgment of their role in society. By providing a stipend, the government is recognizing the value of the work these elders do and the importance of their contributions to national governance.

Moreover, the formal recognition of village elders as government officers will provide them with the legal backing they need to perform their duties more effectively. This includes the ability to enforce decisions, coordinate with other government agencies, and access resources necessary for community development projects.

Potential Challenges and Considerations

While the proposal to provide a monthly allowance to village elders is a positive step, it is not without challenges. One of the primary concerns is the sustainability of the stipend program, particularly given Kenya’s economic conditions. The government will need to ensure that the program is adequately funded and that the allowances are disbursed regularly.

Another potential challenge is the recruitment and retention of village elders. The framework will need to establish clear criteria for selecting elders, ensuring that only individuals who are genuinely committed to serving their communities are appointed. Additionally, the government will need to put in place measures to address any issues of misconduct or underperformance among elders.

Finally, there is the issue of training and capacity building. While many village elders have extensive knowledge of their communities, they may lack the formal training needed to navigate complex governance issues or to interact with government agencies. The government will need to invest in training programs to equip village elders with the skills they need to perform their duties effectively.

Conclusion

The proposed monthly allowance for village elders is a significant step towards recognizing and supporting the vital role these community leaders play in Kenyan society. By formalizing their roles and providing them with legal recognition and compensation, the government is not only acknowledging their contributions but also strengthening the overall governance structure at the grassroots level.

As Kenya continues to develop and modernize, the role of village elders will remain crucial in maintaining social cohesion, resolving conflicts, and promoting community development. The government’s commitment to supporting these leaders through formal recognition and compensation will ensure that they can continue to serve their communities effectively, contributing to the country’s long-term stability and growth.

photo source: Google

By: Montel Kamau

Serrari Financial Analyst

12th August, 2024