A report tabled in Parliament for the financial year ending June 2024 has revealed that three major Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) projects worth KES 21.9 billion have stalled due to funding shortfalls. Initiated between November 2021 and June 2022, these projects remain incomplete, with contractors having received only KES 3.16 billion, leaving a balance of KES 18.77 billion.
The audit, conducted by Auditor-General Nancy Gathungu, highlights concerns over the lack of progress and accountability in the projects, some of which were considered flagship developments under former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s administration. “Review of the Ministry’s project progress reports and implementation status reports indicates that three projects, initiated between November 2021 and June 2022 with a cumulative contract amount of KES 21.9 billion, had stalled,” Gathungu stated.
Key Stalled Projects
Among the affected developments is the Ksh18 billion Level 6 Forces Research Referral Hospital (FRRH) in Kabete, which was expected to be completed by January 18, 2025. However, the audit indicates that the hospital stands at only 20 percent completion.
Similarly, construction of a permanent camp for the 8 Brigade Headquarters and Mechanised Infantry Battalion (MIB) has stalled at 20 percent. The contract, valued at KES 2.8 billion and signed on December 14, 2021, was due for completion by August 14, 2023. So far, only KES 175 million has been paid, leaving a shortfall of KES 2.63 billion.
Another project—the upgrade of a 4.2-kilometer road—also remains incomplete at 60 percent. Initially scheduled for completion by December 21, 2022, work stopped after the contractor received KES 90.19 million, with an outstanding balance of KES 99 million. The audit did not specify the exact location of the road project.
Lack of Progress and Oversight
Physical inspections conducted in October and December 2024 revealed no ongoing work at any of the project sites, raising concerns over their future. Gathungu noted that project managers had not outlined any measures to revive the stalled developments. “In addition, evidence that the contractors renewed their performance bonds was not provided for audit review,” she observed.
With KES 3.16 billion already spent and no visible progress, the audit raises serious questions about the efficiency of public spending in defence projects. The report calls for accountability in ensuring the stalled developments are completed and public funds are properly utilized.
