Top security officials on Monday appealed to the National Assembly Committee on Defence, Intelligence and Foreign Relations to increase funding for their agencies in the upcoming financial year, warning that current allocations may not be sufficient to address emerging security challenges.
The committee, chaired by Belgut MP Hon. Nelson Koech, began examining the 2025/2026 budget estimates with submissions from the Ministry of Defence, the National Intelligence Service (NIS), and the State Department for East African Community (EAC).
In their presentation, Defence Principal Secretary Dr. Patrick Mariru and Vice Chief of Defence Forces Lt. Gen. Mugaravai Omenda emphasized the urgent need for modernization of military equipment, improved border security, and enhanced support for Kenyan troops.
NIS Director General Mr. Noordin Haji expressed concern over a KSh 14 billion funding gap, stating that the agency had requested KSh 65 billion but was allocated KSh 51 billion for the next financial year.
“Our national security systems must be adequately funded to keep pace with evolving threats, including terrorism, cybercrime, and misinformation,” Haji said. “We cannot afford to be reactive in the current security landscape.”
Dr. Caroline Karugu, Principal Secretary for the State Department for EAC, urged lawmakers to boost the department’s funding, noting that enhanced engagement with the East African Community could open up new avenues for trade and regional influence.
“The EAC is a vital pillar in our foreign and trade policy. Strategic investment here could yield long-term economic benefits for the country,” she said.
The committee is expected to continue its engagements tomorrow with the State Department of Foreign Affairs and the State Department of Diaspora Affairs.
