By Brian Kiprono - Reporter
Kenya, August 4, 2026 - Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has called for the formal recognition of traditional councils of elders across Kenya, arguing that they should be integrated into county government structures to strengthen peacebuilding, cultural preservation and grassroots security.
Speaking at State House, Nairobi, during a meeting bringing together village elders and governors from across the country hosted by President William Ruto, Murkomen said traditional elders remain a vital pillar of community leadership and conflict resolution but have not received formal recognition in government systems.
He proposed that recognised councils of elders be placed under county governments through the Ministry of Culture to enable them to play a more structured role in promoting social cohesion.
"As we have recognised village administrators who are working closely with the security agencies to bring peace, we also need to recognise our traditional councils of elders across the country, such as the Njuri Ncheke. They need to be part of the Ministry of Culture department in the county governments," Murkomen said.
The Interior CS urged the Council of Governors to support the proposal, saying the elders possess invaluable knowledge and influence that can help prevent conflict and strengthen community-based security.
With the country preparing for the next election cycle, Murkomen appealed to elders to use their influence to foster unity and reject leaders promoting ethnic divisions and political intolerance.
More from Kenya
"I request our elders to be pillars of unity. Let us promote our values, the principles of our Constitution and patriotism as a country. I ask you to be the cornerstone of the unity of our Republic and shun politics and leaders who preach division and tribalism," he said.
Murkomen also announced progress in the government's plan to equip chiefs and assistant chiefs with tablet computers to improve communication between local administrators and national security agencies.
"The process has taken a bit of time, but we are finalising it to ensure chiefs receive their tablets so that communication on security matters is strengthened," he said.
President William Ruto convened the meeting of village elders from all regions of Kenya to discuss strengthening grassroots governance, enhancing community leadership and improving cooperation between the national and county governments, with elders expected to play a greater role in promoting peace, national unity and local dispute resolution.