Chiefs and Assistant Chiefs play a critical role in the grassroots administration of Kenya. They act as the direct link between the national government and the people, particularly in rural and peri-urban areas.
Appointed by the Ministry of Interior and Coordination of the National Government, these officers oversee local governance, maintain law and order, and implement government policies at the community level.
Who Is a Chief or Assistant Chief?
A Chief is a public servant in charge of a location, while an Assistant Chief is responsible for a sublocation. They operate under the authority of the Ministry of Interior and serve under the direction of the County Commissioners and Deputy County Commissioners.
They are not elected but are appointed by the Public Service Commission after passing through a competitive recruitment process.
Responsibilities of Chiefs and Assistant Chiefs
Some of their core responsibilities include:
- Maintaining peace and order in their area of jurisdiction.
- Coordinating national government functions at the local level.
- Resolving minor land and family disputes.
- Reporting security threats, including cattle rustling, illicit brews, and crime.
- Coordinating government programs like Inua Jamii, SHA, and Huduma Namba registration.
- Mobilizing residents during national events, immunization drives, or the census.
- Supporting disaster management and response at the local level.
Qualifications Required
To be appointed as a Chief or Assistant Chief, one must meet the following minimum qualifications:
For Assistant Chief (Job Group F/G):
- Be a Kenyan citizen aged between 30 and 55 years.
- Hold a KCSE certificate, mean grade C- (minus) or equivalent.
- Have served in public service or community leadership for a minimum of five years.
- Good communication and interpersonal skills.
- Must be a resident of the sublocation and familiar with the area.
For Chief (Job Group H/J):
- Kenyan citizen, aged 30-55 years.
- Must possess a KCSE certificate, mean grade C (plain) or higher.
- Minimum of five years’ experience in public administration, education, or community development.
- Must have a clean record of integrity and leadership.
- Strong conflict-resolution and administrative skills.
Salaries and Allowances
1. Assistant Chief Salary (Job Group F/G):
- Basic Salary: KSh 30,000 – KSh 42,000 per month
- House Allowance: KSh 3,200 – KSh 4,200
- Commuter Allowance: KSh 3,000 – KSh 4,000
- Hardship Allowance (if applicable): KSh 4,000 – KSh 8,000
Total Monthly Gross Pay: Approximately KSh 40,000 – KSh 58,000
2. Chief Salary (Job Group H/J):
- Basic Salary: KSh 38,000 – KSh 64,000 per month
- House Allowance: KSh 5,000 – KSh 6,750
- Commuter Allowance: KSh 4,000 – KSh 5,000
- Hardship Allowance: KSh 5,000 – KSh 10,000
Total Monthly Gross Pay: Approximately KSh 52,000 – KSh 85,000
Note: Salaries and allowances vary based on location, job group, and government adjustments by the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC).
Other Benefits
- Pension: All chiefs and assistant chiefs are entitled to a public service pension.
- Training and career advancement: Officers may be promoted to higher positions based on merit, discipline, and performance.
- Medical Cover: Government-provided insurance through SHA or private schemes.
Conclusion
Chiefs and Assistant Chiefs form the foundation of administrative order and service delivery at the grassroots in Kenya. While their roles come with great responsibility, they also enjoy a decent salary package and government benefits. For those passionate about community service and leadership, these roles offer a meaningful career path.
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