Marakwet West MP Timothy Kipchumba Welcomes Sh3.9 Billion Allocation for Village Elders
By Shadrack Mutai – Nairobi Kenya
Marakwet West MP Timothy Kipchumba has welcomed the government’s decision to allocate Sh3.9 billion for stipends for village elders in the 2026/27 financial year, describing it as a major boost to grassroots administration and service delivery.
Speaking following the budget statement presented by Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi, Kipchumba said the allocation recognizes the critical role village elders play in maintaining security, resolving community disputes, and linking citizens with government services.
The MP noted that for years, village elders have carried out government responsibilities without any formal remuneration despite being at the frontline of community leadership.
“This allocation is a recognition of the sacrifices and commitment demonstrated by village elders across the country. They are the first point of contact between the government and wananchi at the grassroots level,” said Kipchumba.
According to the budget highlights, about 110,000 village elders are expected to benefit from the stipend programme.
Kipchumba further termed the move as a fulfillment of a promise made during the nationwide Jukwaa la Usalama forums and later reaffirmed by President William Ruto.
He expressed confidence that the stipend will motivate village elders and strengthen government efforts in enhancing security, social cohesion, and effective service delivery at the village level.
The allocation forms part of broader government investments in the security sector, including funding for police modernization, leasing of police vehicles, and the establishment of a National Forensic Facility.
