By Kepher Otieno - Reporter
Kenya, 11 June 2026 - Village elders have welcomed the government's decision to allocate KSh 3.9 billion for their welfare and facilitation, terming it a historic milestone that finally recognises their critical role in grassroots administration and community service.
The elders praised President William Ruto and the Kenya Kwanza administration for fulfilling a long-standing request by community leaders who have for years served voluntarily without government support.
Speaking after the budget announcement, the elders said the allocation would boost their morale and enable them to discharge their duties more effectively in villages across the country.
"We wholeheartedly support the government's decision to recognise village elders. For decades we have worked tirelessly to maintain peace, resolve disputes and support government programmes at the grassroots without any facilitation. This allocation is a clear demonstration that the government appreciates our contribution," the elders said in a joint statement.
The statement was endorsed by Kano Council of Elders Chairman Walter Aluoch, Kano Luo Council of Elders Chairman Bishop Kasuku Kaloo, Kano Unity Chairman Thomas Osano Dulo, Treasurer Henry Yala and Secretary-General Bernard Del.
Aluoch described the allocation as a landmark intervention that would strengthen grassroots leadership and improve service delivery in villages across the country.
"We commend President Ruto and his administration for this historic decision. For many years village elders have served communities diligently without any form of facilitation. The allocation of KSh 3.9 billion is a clear indication that the government appreciates the sacrifices and contribution of elders to nation-building," said Aluoch.
Bishop Kaloo said the allocation was long overdue and would motivate elders to continue serving their communities more effectively.
"This is one of the best decisions the government has made for grassroots leadership. Village elders are the first line of administration and conflict resolution in our villages. Recognising and facilitating them is a positive step for the country," he said.
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Thomas Osano Dulo said the move would strengthen community structures and improve coordination between citizens and government agencies.
"We support this initiative because it empowers people who have been working voluntarily for decades. It is a welcome recognition of the important role elders play in promoting peace, cohesion and development," he said.
Henry Yala said the move demonstrated that the government was listening to ordinary Kenyans and community leaders.
"For a long time elders have worked without any support despite being relied upon by communities and government officials alike. We thank the government for finally addressing this concern," said Yala.
Bernard Del urged the government to ensure the funds are disbursed efficiently and transparently to reach all deserving beneficiaries.
The elders noted that village elders have remained the first point of contact in handling local conflicts, identifying vulnerable families, mobilising communities for development projects and supporting security agencies in maintaining law and order.
They singled out Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi for announcing the allocation during the 2026/27 Budget Statement, saying the move had brought renewed hope to thousands of elders across the country.
"We thank President Ruto and CS Mbadi for listening to our concerns. The KSh 3.9 billion allocation is a clear indication that the government values grassroots leadership and the role elders play in national development," they said.
According to the elders, the funding will not only improve their welfare but also strengthen service delivery at the village level by enhancing coordination between communities and government administrators.
They urged the government to ensure a clear implementation framework is developed to guarantee all village elders benefit from the programme.
In his Budget speech, Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi announced that the government had set aside KSh 3.9 billion to facilitate village elders as part of efforts to strengthen grassroots governance and enhance community participation in development and security initiatives.
The elders described the allocation as a landmark decision that would leave a lasting legacy in recognising community leadership, strengthening local governance and promoting inclusive development across Kenya.