Senator Chute demands answers over KDF’s growing role in civilian projects
Marsabit Senator Mohamed Chute has raised concerns over the increasing involvement of the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) in implementing civilian public infrastructure projects.
The lawmaker has warned that the trend could undermine transparency and fair competition in public procurement.
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Speaking on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, during a Senate sitting, Senator Chute sought a statement from the Senate Standing Committee on Roads, Transportation and Housing regarding the awarding of major development projects, including the construction of stadiums, to the KDF.
Civilian contractors sidelined
The legislator questioned why civilian contractors have been sidelined in favour of the military, despite having the necessary technical capacity and experience to undertake such projects.
“We must ensure transparency and fairness in public procurement. Civilian contractors should not be sidelined where they are fully capable,” he stated.
He also demanded a detailed explanation from the relevant ministries and agencies on the procurement methods applied since 2020, specifically asking why open tendering was not used in several projects and how the military emerged as the primary implementer.
The senator also called for full disclosure on the rationale behind the government’s growing reliance on the military for civilian infrastructure works, from stadium construction to road rehabilitation, arguing that it raises accountability concerns.
KDF projects
In recent years, KDF has taken over several key projects, including the completion of stalled stadiums, roadworks, and urban renewal initiatives, under directives from the Executive.
Proponents of the approach have argued that the military delivers projects more efficiently and within budget, while critics warn that it blurs the line between civilian and military mandates.
Some of the projects that have recently been overseen by the KDF are the renovations of both Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, and Nyayo National Stadium ahead of the African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 tournament that was co-hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.
The military is also overseeing the current construction of Talanta Sports City Stadium, which will host the 2027 African Cup of Nations (AFCON).
KDF will also play an integral role in the construction of the Nyamira University College, a constituent college of Kisii University, in Nyamira County.
According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Defence led by Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya on Saturday, October 25, 2025, KDF will provide technical expertise to ensure the project’s successful completion within the planned ten-month timeline.
“This partnership between the Ministry of Defence, the Ministry of Education, and the County Government of Nyamira is a testament to our shared commitment to deliver world-class infrastructure efficiently and transparently,” Tuya stated during the groundbreaking ceremony attended by Education CS Julius Migos and other local leaders.
