The government has significantly increased funding for the security sector in the 2025/2026 financial year, allocating KSh 464.8 billion, up from KSh 377.5 billion in the previous fiscal year—as part of its commitment to strengthening national defence, internal security, and public safety.
Presenting the budget estimates to Parliament on Thursday, Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi emphasised that a secure environment is essential for economic growth, investment attraction, and national stability. He noted that the enhanced allocation aligns with the government’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA) and broader national priorities under Vision 2030.
Security Sector Budget Highlights for 2025/2026:
- Defence: KSh 202.3 billion (up from KSh 173.1 billion)
- National Police Service: KSh 125.7 billion (up from KSh 110.6 billion)
- National Intelligence Service: KSh 51.4 billion (up from KSh 46.3 billion)
- Prisons Services: KSh 38.1 billion (up from KSh 32.7 billion)
- Internal Security & National Administration: KSh 32.5 billion
- Police Motor Vehicle Leasing: KSh 10.0 billion (down from KSh 10.3 billion)
- Police Modernisation Programme: KSh 3.6 billion (up from KSh 3.6 billion)
- National Forensic Facilities: KSh 1.2 billion (up from KSh 918.4 million)
CS Mbadi explained that the increased allocation will support the recruitment of additional police, military, and prison personnel; expansion of security infrastructure; and modernization of operational equipment. It will also fund the digitization of key services such as passport issuance and national ID processing.
In addition, the government has prioritised the construction of housing units and health facilities for security personnel, aiming to improve their welfare and service delivery.
“These investments are critical not only for responding to emerging internal and external threats but also for securing Kenya’s long-term development agenda,” Mbadi said.
The substantial budget increase underscores the administration’s strategic focus on security as a foundational pillar for sustainable economic and social transformation.
Written By Rodney Mbua
