The Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) has issued a clarification regarding a petition challenging the proposed removal of hardship status for Elgeyo Marakwet County. The clarification came in response to a formal objection submitted by Yano Kipkosgei Evans, a local teacher, on May 5, 2025.
In a letter dated July 14, 2025, SRC confirmed receipt of the petition and stated that the authority to designate hardship areas does not fall under its mandate. According to the Commission, this role is held by the Head of Public Service, based on recommendations from the State Department for Public Service and Human Capital Development. These functions operate under the Ministry of Public Service, Human Capital Development and Special Programmes.
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Hardship allowance is a financial benefit provided to public servants working in areas classified as difficult due to factors like insecurity, poor infrastructure or harsh climatic conditions.
Elgeyo Marakwet has traditionally been one of the regions covered under this policy due to its terrain, limited accessibility and occasional security challenges.
SRC emphasized that the applicable rates for hardship allowance have not changed. The current rates are based on guidelines outlined in the Commission’s Circular No. SRC/ADM/CIR/1/13 Vol. III (126), issued on December 10, 2014.
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The Commission also clarified that its purpose in issuing the letter was to provide guidance on the matter and to underline that any changes to hardship area designation must be processed by the appropriate office in government.
The dispute follows concerns from teachers and civil servants in Elgeyo Marakwet who fear losing a critical financial support if the hardship designation is lifted. The SRC has called for continued cooperation from all stakeholders as the matter is handled within the legal framework set by the government.
By Benedict Aoya
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