President William Ruto announces that Kenya’s more than 106,000 village elders will start receiving a monthly stipend of Sh3,000. According to reports, the programme is set to begin next month or in the 2026/27 financial year, depending on the source’s timing. Ruto makes the announcement while addressing a group of village elders at State House in Nairobi, where he says the payments are meant to support elders’ role in mobilising residents, settling disputes, supporting security efforts and advancing government initiatives at the grassroots.
The measures also include additional support intended to strengthen elders’ capacity and communication. One report says the package includes smartphones and coverage under the Social Health Authority (SHA), in addition to regular cash payments. Another outlet focuses on the budget side of the plan, reporting that the Treasury, through Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi, allocates Sh3.9 billion for the stipends in the 2026/27 budget, which was signed into law in June 2026.
Taken together, the reports describe a nationwide roll-out combining monthly cash transfers with practical tools for local engagement and service delivery.
