Malindi village elders and Nyumba Kumi officials have admitted handling local gender-based violence cases for cash due to lack of pay from the government.
The elders said they normally resolve cases of teenage pregnancies, domestic violence and sometimes defilement.
The lot, during a campaign against cases of GBV in Kilifi county on Wednesday, said their actions prevent the cases from reaching the courts.
The dialogue forum was initiated by Center for Rights Education Forum and Awareness (CREAW) - a civil rights body.
The programme, dubbed Haki Yetu Jukumu Yetu, is being implemented to ensure victims of GBV access justice.
During the meeting, the elders said they are normally approached by families to resolve the cases as "victims fear being taken to jail."
One of the village elders said the lack of contract or job description is frustrating them in efforts to maintain tranquillity in their areas.
"When appointed, I was told to assist the assistant chief in resolving minor cases but I have not undergone any formal training."
"I don't know exactly what cases am supposed to handle and those that need to go to another level," one of them said.
Anna Baya, a village elder, blamed boda boda operators and disco matangas for contributing to the cases of teenage pregnancies.
Moreover, she said men have abandoned their responsibilities and spend more hours in drinking dens, leaving the women to take care of their families.
"Men leave everything for women including paying fees, dealing with household matters, and sourcing food for the family...the situation is bad."
Steve Kioko of CREAW said they have been engaging community and the society at large through the programme.