KDF soldiers to start paying for meals as gov’t ends food subsidy program
KDF soldiers to start paying for meals as oov't ends food subsidy program
Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) officers will now be required to pay for their meals following the government’s decision to scrap the exchequer-funded food subsidy program.
The government has introduced a Pay-As-You-Eat (PAYE) system, which will take effect on Tuesday, July 1, 2025.
The new policy, which replaces the traditional subsidized lunch program, requires KDF soldiers to either pay in cash for meals or have the cost deducted from their monthly salaries.
In a letter dated June 23, 2025, Kenya Army Chief of Logistics Brigadier Eric Nzioki Kitusya announced the implementation of the new program.
“The implementation of the subject program is scheduled to commence on 01 July 2025. In this regard, authority is granted to you to demand for Ration Scale Four (4) for fourteen (14) days with effect from 1st July 2025 for use as seed capital for the program. Your demands to reach this Headquarters not later than 25th June 2025,” the letter read in part.
Ministry of Interior sparks uproar with edited protest footage and controversial captions
MPs plot CS Murkomen impeachment over shoot-to-kill order
Several hospitals on the spot over fraudulent multi-million-shilling SHA claims
Nairobi mask hawker Boniface Kariuki shot by police declared brain dead
Mother accuses 4 police officers of assaulting her and 10-month-old baby in Nairobi
I was strangled by DCI officer over protest clips; Afande Denno
Nzioki noted that funds generated from the 14-day ration demand would be used to establish a revolving fund to sustain the new meal system.
“Please note that it is envisaged that the proceeds of the seed capital will form a self-sustaining revolving fund to be administered by the Pay-As-You-Eat Management Committees to oversee the operation of the messing facilities,” he stated.
Further, Nzioki instructed KDF officers to utilize their existing kitchens and dining facilities to support the PAYE program.
“Further, you are advised to utilize the existing messing infrastructure/facilities/amenities to support the Pay-As-You-Eat program.
“Additional requirements will continue to be considered progressively on a case-by-case basis in the 2025/2026 Financial Year,” Nzioki added.
The move to end the exchequer-funded food subsidy program has reportedly sparked discontent among some junior military officers, who had been relying on the amid the tough economic times.
Ida Odinga installed as honorary canon of the Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK)
Raila slams Murkomen over ‘shoot to kill’ directive to police
Police officer shoots boss dead before being killed in shootout in Siaya
Senior police officer killed in collision on Narok-Mai Mahiu highway
President Ruto supports shoot-to-kill order as Murkomen shifts stance after rebuke
Follow us
