Strengthening indigenous defence manufacturing has become a strategic imperative for building a resilient, mission-ready force capable of responding to evolving security demands. By expanding domestic production capacity and investing in modern defence technologies, the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), through the Kenya Ordnance Factories Corporation (KOFC), is enhancing strategic self-reliance, reducing dependence on external supply chains and ensuring a reliable flow of critical defence equipment to sustain operational readiness.
The Kenya Defence Forces took another significant step toward this goal when the Chief of the Defence Forces (CDF), General Charles Kahariri, presided over the 73rd Kenya Ordnance Factories Corporation Board of Directors Meeting before officiating the groundbreaking ceremony for a new ammunition production line at KOFC in Eldoret. Upon arrival, the CDF was received by the Managing Director of KOFC, Major General George Okumu.
During the Board meeting, members reviewed the Corporation’s strategic progress and assessed ongoing initiatives aimed at modernising production capabilities to meet emerging operational requirements. A key milestone was the launch of the new ammunition production line, which will complement the refurbishment of the existing production facility and significantly strengthen the Corporation’s manufacturing capability.
The modernisation programme is being implemented in three phases, with the first phase already underway and full completion targeted for the 2027/2028 Financial Year. Once complete, the integrated upgrades are projected to increase production capacity by approximately 35 percent while enhancing the consistent production of high-quality small arms ammunition and related auxiliary products to support KDF operations.
Addressing KOFC personnel after the groundbreaking ceremony, General Kahariri commended the Corporation for its production achievements and underscored the strategic importance of expanding local defence manufacturing capacity to meet future operational requirements. He urged personnel to continue upholding the core military values of discipline, professionalism and dedication, noting that these principles remain fundamental to sustaining excellence and positioning the Corporation as a critical pillar of Kenya’s defence capability.
The modernisation initiative highlights the growing role of the defence industry in strengthening national security by providing dependable, locally manufactured capabilities that support military preparedness. Increased production capacity will not only enhance operational resilience but also contribute to long-term strategic sustainability by ensuring that essential defence requirements can be met through indigenous capability.
The Board meeting and groundbreaking ceremony were attended by the Vice Chief of the Defence Forces, Lieutenant General John Omenda; Commander Kenya Army, Lieutenant General David Keter; Commander Kenya Navy, Major General Paul Otieno; Director General Defence National Security Industries (DNSI), Major General Faustino Lobaly; alongside other senior military officers and KOFC leadership.
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