- Lt. Gen. David Ketter says soldiers’ lunch allowances will not be deducted.
- Dismisses reports linking payments to DESACCO as false and reckless.
- Urges troops to use the new mobile app for meal bookings under PAYE system.
- Government ends subsidised lunch for peacetime soldiers in barracks.
- Operational and training units will still receive free meals.
Kenya Army Commander Lieutenant General David Ketter has assured soldiers that the military will not deduct lunch allowances from their payslips under the recently introduced Pay-As-You-Eat (PAYE) programme.
Speaking during his first baraza with troops at Ngao Gardens in Nairobi, Lt. Gen. Ketter reaffirmed that the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) values the link between troop welfare and operational readiness.
“As you know, the meal allowance is the same across all ranks, Officers and Service Personnel. The PAYE programme puts you at the centre of decision-making about meals that suit your preferences,” he said.
He noted that food choices are increasingly personal, and the programme gives personnel more autonomy. He urged them to use the new mobile app developed for booking and paying for meals.
Lt. Gen. Ketter strongly dismissed claims that lunch allowances would be channelled through the Defence Savings and Credit Cooperative Society (DESACCO).
“Those reports are false and reckless,” he stated.
He added that no soldier will face salary deductions for meals and encouraged personnel to remain calm and focus on their duties.
Also Read: President Ruto Reshuffles Top KDF Command in Strategic Shake-Up
The Commander also announced continuous improvements to KDF camp cafeterias, ensuring easy access and convenience for troops.
“A supportive culture shall continually inform KDF policies and decision-making to ensure your needs are sufficiently met,” he said.
This, he added, would enable soldiers to focus solely on their constitutional role of protecting Kenya’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The baraza was an opportunity for Lt. Gen. Ketter to share his leadership philosophy. He called on all soldiers to embrace discipline and integrity, which he described as the pillars of KDF’s strength.
He thanked personnel for their dedication and urged them to remain professional, responsible, and united.
Also Read: KDF Joins Locals in Planting Trees as CS Soipan Leads Isiolo Greening Effort
“We are committed to a soldier-centric approach. This will be achieved through adaptive leadership and effective resource use,” he concluded.
The Ministry of Defence has abolished state-funded lunch in KDF barracks for soldiers in peacetime or non-operational duty.
Troops in these units will now pay for their meals, while those in active duty or training will continue to receive government-provided food.
The Ministry said the move is aimed at reducing waste, increasing efficiency, and offering soldiers greater food choices.
