Ruto Directs Mandatory Allowances, Medical Insurers & Smartphones for Elders - August 2026

President William Ruto has announced significant reforms for Kenya's village elders, including monthly allowances, health cover, and smartphones, marking the first time these grassroots administrators have received formal national recognition. The government rolled out a Sh3,000 monthly stipend for village elders across the nation to formalize their roles in local governance. Separately, President Ruto hosted over 5,000 members of the Friends Church (Quakers) at State House, Nairobi, as focus shifts to 2027 politics.