Preparing a strong national security budget begins long before resources are allocated it starts with careful planning, collaboration and a shared commitment to safeguarding the nation. Recognizing this, the National Security Sector Working Group officially launched the preparation of the Financial Year 2027/28 Budget and Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) on 3 August 2026 at the Defence Headquarters Officers’ Mess.
The exercise brought together representatives from institutions across the National Security Sector to begin the consultative budget planning process, ensuring that future resource allocation remains aligned with national priorities, government policy and the sector’s strategic objectives. The forum also provided an opportunity to review ongoing programmes, assess emerging security needs and identify priority areas that will strengthen operational readiness and institutional effectiveness.
The launch was presided over by the Vice Chief of the Defence Forces (VCDF), Lieutenant General John Omenda, and the Principal Secretary for Defence, Dr Patrick Mariru. Also present were the Director Administration, senior officers and officers from institutions within the National Security Sector.
Addressing participants, the Principal Secretary for Defence, Dr Patrick Mariru, commended the National Security Sector Working Group for its commitment and coordination throughout the budget preparation process, noting that the progress made reflects the sector’s collective efforts towards prudent planning. He urged members to remain focused on strategic priorities, embrace Zero Based Budgeting and ensure that every resource is directed towards achieving the nation’s security objectives.
The Vice Chief of the Defence Forces, Lieutenant General John Omenda, called on members of the Working Group to approach the exercise with timely coordination, sound judgment and disciplined prioritization. He encouraged participants to learn from previous budget cycles by identifying gaps, eliminating low impact expenditures and focusing available resources on programmes that deliver the greatest operational and strategic value. He further emphasized the importance of teamwork, information sharing and realistic planning in developing a responsive budget capable of addressing both current and emerging security challenges.
The budget preparation exercise is expected to produce a well prioritized and sustainable financial framework that will strengthen inter-agency collaboration, support the continued modernization of security institutions and enhance the National Security Sector’s ability to effectively protect Kenya’s sovereignty and the safety of its citizens.
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