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KDF lunch subsidy scrapped as government rolls out Pay-as-You-Eat policy across military units

National

Author: Grace Githinji

June 30, 2025

2 min.read

Kenya Defence Forces officers will start paying for their meals out of pocket after the government ends its long-running lunch subsidy. The Ministry of Defence says this reform aims to improve efficiency and bring military catering in line with international standards.

The Chief of Logistics Brigadier Eric Nzioki Kitusya sent a directive to all units. He instructed them to use their Ration Scale Four grant to establish revolving funds managed locally. “Each unit should establish a management committee to oversee the operation of the mess and ensure sustainability,” the letter states. This move ensures that messes can operate independently under the new Pay‑As‑You‑Eat (PAYE) system.

Previously, only breakfast and dinner were self-funded since 2000, while lunches remained subsidized. The Ministry explained that the subsidy caused inefficiencies, such as long queues, rigid meal times, and duplicate rations when personnel moved between bases.

Therefore, the PAYE model now requires officers to purchase meals directly at military messes. Explained the Ministry: “This change aims to streamline budgetary allocation, enhance resource efficiency, and facilitate access to a variety of meals.” This approach also simplifies budgeting and reduces food waste.

Moving forward, the Ministry assured that existing dining facilities would remain open and undergo evaluation for needed upgrades. It also confirmed that any additional funding needs would be addressed in the next fiscal cycle.

Reactions from within the ranks vary. Some senior officers see the PAYE system as a step toward modernizing military operations and improving accountability. Nevertheless, junior officers have voiced concerns. One soldier, speaking anonymously, said, “We are already managing so much on limited income, and now this comes in without adequate preparation. This will hit many of us hard.”

The Ministry plans to introduce the PAYE system gradually, beginning with non-operational bases. Each unit must submit regular reports on food quality, customer satisfaction, and spending. Management committees will oversee compliance and ensure fair implementation.

As a result of these measures, some officers may experience improved meal options and reduced waste. However, others worry the financial burden could affect morale if costs rise.

Separately, a military WhatsApp group circulated Brigadier Kitusya’s letter, drawing attention within the ranks. The directive clarified that the move aligns with global military catering norms and expects messes to operate under local oversight and accountability.

July 1 will mark the first meal under PAYE, and observers will monitor the rollout closely. If the system proves cost-effective and maintains feeding standards, the changes might expand.

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Grace Githinji