𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐥𝐢𝐚𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐁𝐮𝐢𝐥𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬

𝐓𝐮𝐞, 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐜𝐡 𝟏𝟗𝐭𝐡 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟒

The National Assembly Committee on Defence, Intelligence and Foreign Relations has scrutinised the Ministry of Defence budget implementation for 2022/23 financial year.

In meeting chaired by Hon. Nelson Koech (Belgut), Ministry officials led by Cabinet Secretary,  Hon. Aden Duale, PS, Hon. Patrick Mariru & Vice Chief of the Defence Forces, Lt Gen. Charles Kahariri engaged Committee Members regarding the utilization of funds allocated for the 2022/23 financial year in accordance with Article 153 of the Constitution.

"In line with Section 10 (h) of the Kenya Defence Forces Act, we requested for a detailed report," said Committee Chair and Belgut MP, Hon. Nelson Koech. "This includes itemized budget showing the utilization of public funds, the status of implementation of projects and achieved outputs."

Committee Members sought specific details on how the Ministry utilised its budget, particularly on infrastructure development, equipment modernization, research initiatives and civil aid.

Kajiado Central MP, Hon. Elijah Memusi sought an itemised breakdown of the programmes being implemented by the Ministry of Defence. With Kamkunji MP, Hon. Yusuf Hassan asking, "How much are we investing in making and protecting our citizens and meeting the emerging challenges. We are in the age of digital warfare, what are we doing regarding cyber security."

While acknowledging challenges faced due to budget constraints, CS Duale informed the Committee that the Defence Ministry had achieved most of its set targets. This includes the completion of Ulinzi Sports Center, construction of Lanet Regional Hospital, construction of accommodation blocks and messes as well as supporting the Kenya Space Agency in developing and launching the Taifa 1 Earth Observation Satellite. 

Lawmakers also expressed concern about the encroachment by civilians on military bases, in particular, the Moi Air Base in Eastleigh and the Military installment in Kibarani. Central Imenti MP, Hon. Moses Kirima highlighted, "A number of military bases have been encroached on, Moi Air Base in Eastleigh and Kibarani. What measures have you put in place to deal with this?"

In its Report, the Ministry highlighted its social responsibility efforts, such as drilling boreholes in several counties and rehabilitating schools.

Additionally, Committee Members questioned the the extent to which military equipment is becoming obsolete with Baringo Central MP,  Hon. Joshua Kandie questioning the purchasing equipment that becomes obsolete within a few years.

Responding to the Committee's queries for a more detailed breakdown, CS Duale pledged to provide an item-by-item account of the Ministry's spending. He further assured the Committee of a comprehensive report on the DRC mission and ongoing research initiatives undertaken by the National Defence University.

Members of the Committee on Defence, Intelligence and Foreign Relations will have further engagements with Officials regarding implementation of the Ministry's programmes.