MAMA Sarah Obama, the step grandmother of US President Barack Obama has asked the government to increase the monthly stipend to the elderly.

Sarah told the government not drag its feet over the issue, saying the elderly people were eagerly awaiting the stipend.

She was speaking yesterday at Siaya Young Women Christian Association offices, during the old people celebration day.

She said the number of senior citizens had increased and added many were wallowing in poverty. "Many of these aged people are taking care of their orphaned grandchildren and yet the stipend which would go along way in helping them has been not forthcoming," she said.