A section of Kitui MPs have welcomed the government’s decision to introduce a monthly stipend of Ksh. 3,000 for village elders, saying the move will boost their morale and improve service delivery at the grassroots.

The announcement was made by the Principal Secretary for Internal Security, Raymond Omollo, who said the government will begin compensating village elders for their role in supporting administration and security efforts in local communities.

Led by Mwingi West MP Charles Nguna, the legislators said they had lobbied the government to recognise and support village elders, who they described as an important link between communities and the national government.

Nguna said the stipend will motivate the elders to perform their duties more effectively, noting that they play a critical role in maintaining peace, resolving conflicts and supporting government programmes at the village level.

The MPs said the move is a significant step towards recognising the contribution of village elders, who have for years carried out their responsibilities without a regular stipend.

They called for the government to ensure the payments are made consistently and reach all eligible village elders across the country.