From Subsidy to Self-Payment
The traditional exchequer-funded lunch initiative, which catered especially to low-ranking officers, will be phased out under the new directive issued by the Ministry of Defence.
A letter from the Kenya Army Headquarters dated June 23 and signed by Chief of Logistics Brigadier Eric Nzioki Kitusya outlined the new policy. It instructed that “authority is granted to demand for Ration Scale Four (4) for fourteen (14) days effective July 1 to form seed capital for the program.”
Self-Sustaining Messing Facilities
The letter added that the seed capital proceeds would form a self-sustaining revolving fund to be managed by PAYE Committees overseeing operations of messing facilities across KDF units.
“You are advised to utilize existing messing infrastructure to support the PAYE program. Additional needs will be addressed progressively within the 2025/2026 financial year,” the letter noted.
Why the Shift?
In a statement, the Ministry of Defence explained the motivation behind the changes: “This transition will streamline budgetary allocation, increase efficiency in resource use, and align with best military practices regionally and globally.”
The government argued that the old system led to loss of working hours due to queues, lacked flexibility, and resulted in duplication of rations for officers transferred between camps.
Historical Background
KDF introduced a ration cash allowance in 2000, scrapping centralized provision of breakfast and dinner. The lunch program remained until now and was reviewed periodically to reflect inflationary pressures.
With the end of the lunch subsidy, officers will now manage their daily feeding through deductions and personal payments a move that has sparked quiet discontent among lower-ranked personnel.
What’s Next?
While implementation begins on July 1, the Ministry has pledged to monitor progress and provide additional support where necessary. Officers are advised to channel concerns through formal command structures.
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