‪Why The Govt Has Scrapped The Lunch Subsidy For KDF Soldiers‬

Nairobi – The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) has announced plans to scrap its current food subsidy programme and replace it with a Pay-As-You-Eat (PAYE) system starting July 1, 2025. This move, aimed at improving efficiency and saving taxpayers between Ksh2 billion and Ksh3 billion annually, has sparked mixed reactions among military personnel.

Transition to PAYE System

The decision, outlined in a directive signed by Major General MN Hassan on January 17, 2025, follows a review of the current exchequer-funded lunch programme. The KDF cited inefficiencies and ineffectiveness in the existing system, including leakages and high costs, as reasons for the transition.

A senior military official, speaking anonymously due to the sensitivity of the matter, revealed that the PAYE system is expected to save significant taxpayer funds. The official also noted that the current subsidy programme has been plagued by inefficiencies, leading to unnecessary expenditures.

Implementation Strategy

The transition to the PAYE system has been in the works since August 2023, when a committee was established to develop and recommend implementation modalities. The committee presented its findings to the Service Commanders Committee Meeting (SCCM) on October 29, 2024, and outlined an implementation strategy on December 17, 2024.

Key components of the strategy include:

– Sensitisation Programmes: Rollout of educational initiatives to help service personnel understand the new system.

– Infrastructure Enhancements: Upgrading messing facilities and implementing secure, convenient, and cost-effective cashless payment systems, such as mobile money Paybill numbers and Quick Data Processing (PDQ) modules.
– Management Committees: Establishment of committees at Formation and Unit levels to oversee the operation of messing facilities.

Mixed Reactions

While the new system aims to improve efficiency and offer a variety of meals to suit individual preferences, it has been met with mixed reactions among military personnel. Some personnel expressed concerns about financial commitments, such as loans, which they fear may force them to go without meals if the system is implemented.

A senior officer, speaking on condition of anonymity, revealed that previous attempts to implement the PAYE system, including during the tenure of former Chief of Defence Forces General Robert Kibochi, were unsuccessful. The officer noted that current Chief of Defence Forces General Francis Ogolla was advised against immediate implementation upon taking office.

Ministry of Defence’s Response

In an official response to inquiries, the Ministry of Defence stated that the PAYE system aligns with best military practices regionally and internationally. The ministry emphasized that the new system will only affect KDF personnel in peace-time locations, with those in operations and training continuing to receive unfitted scales.

The ministry also highlighted the benefits of the PAYE system, including flexibility in meal times, variety in meal options, and the elimination of long queues and duplication of ration scales. Funds saved from the transition will be used to improve messing facility infrastructure, acquire catering requirements, and settle pending ration and food bills.

Historical Context

The current food subsidy programme was introduced in 2000 when the provision for breakfast and dinner was abolished. The transition to the PAYE system marks a significant shift in the KDF’s approach to feeding its personnel, reflecting broader efforts to enhance efficiency and accountability.

Looking Ahead

As the KDF prepares to implement the PAYE system, all eyes will be on the transition process and its impact on military personnel. The success of the new system will depend on effective communication, infrastructure improvements, and the ability to address concerns raised by service members.

For now, the move represents a bold step toward modernizing the KDF’s operations and ensuring the efficient use of government resources. However, it also underscores the need for careful planning and stakeholder engagement to ensure a smooth transition.