Senators question growing KDF role in civilian infrastructure projects

A section of senators has questioned the government’s growing reliance on the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) to implement public infrastructure projects, despite the availability of qualified civilian contractors across the country.

While some argue the military’s involvement ensures speed and discipline, the legislators insist civilian contractors should be prioritised to safeguard transparency and stimulate the local economy.

Marsabit Senator Mohammed Chute has sought a statement from the Senate Standing Committee on Roads, Transportation and Housing over what he described as a rising trend of engaging the KDF in civilian construction projects. He cited the construction and renovation of several stadiums, saying the military’s heavy participation raises questions about procurement transparency.

“The Senate Roads Committee should address the procurement method adopted for each public infrastructure development project initiated by the national government from 2020 to date, where the KDF was selected for implementation. It should also justify in each instance where open tendering was not used,” Chute said.

Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi questioned how the Public Finance Management Act and the Public Procurement and Asset Disposal Act are being applied, warning that the military’s limited public scrutiny could create loopholes for corruption.

“I know people will say that the military is very disciplined, but we can also ensure discipline in other sectors of our economy so that we deliver value for money to our people, instead of involving KDF in such projects,” Osotsi said.

Narok Senator Ledama Olekina, however, defended the KDF’s role, saying their involvement is legal. He reminded the House that the Ulinzi Construction Company was established under the Kenya Defence Forces in 2021 and that the Critical Infrastructure Bill, 2024, is under consideration in the National Assembly.

“Sometimes we may be driven by the interests of private companies, but it is important to note that what the KDF is doing is legal,” Olekina said.

Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot explained that procurement laws allow one government entity to contract with another in urgent cases without undergoing lengthy public tendering. He added that such arrangements are not profit-oriented and are common internationally.

“Most of the Chinese companies carrying out construction in Kenya are state-owned enterprises, not private firms. It is possible for us to build our own state-owned enterprises that can compete with the very best,” Cheruiyot said.

Nominated Senator Karen Nyamu called for clarity on the framework guiding the KDF’s construction works, asking whether the projects are undertaken under a directive, special arrangement, or open tendering. She also cautioned that assigning such jobs to the military may reduce employment opportunities for civilians and limit the circulation of funds in the wider economy.

“We respect the KDF, but let them focus on their core mandate, which does not primarily involve public works. We have qualified contractors in this country with a proven track record of delivering quality projects—we should support them,” Nyamu said.

Nominated Senator Beatrice Ogolla argued that there is no harm in the military contributing to community development, provided the work is done within legal frameworks.

“Since KDF personnel are trained and paid from the public purse, there is nothing wrong with them taking part in development projects as long as it is within legal frameworks,” Ogolla said.

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