NAIROBI, Kenya — Defence CS Soipan Tuya has assured Kenyans that the country remains vigilant and prepared in the face of evolving global security threats, including escalating tensions linked to the Middle East.
Appearing before the National Assembly Committee on Defence, Intelligence and Foreign Relations, the Defence Cabinet Secretary said the Ministry of Defence and the Kenya Defence Forces are continuously reviewing security assessments and upgrading capabilities to respond to emerging risks.
“Security assessments are ongoing, preparedness is continuous, and we are investing in modernization and intelligence systems,” Tuya told lawmakers, citing the growing threat posed by missile and drone warfare.
Her remarks come amid heightened global concern over instability involving the United States, Iran, and Israel, which has raised fears of wider regional escalation.
Tuya, however, cautioned that some aspects of national security cannot be publicly disclosed. “There are limits to what can be disclosed publicly,” she said, emphasising the sensitivity of intelligence operations.
She maintained that Kenya’s defence forces remain well-equipped, supported by active intelligence systems and strong regional and international partnerships.
The briefing comes against the backdrop of increased defence spending, driven in part by rising operational demands and regional security pressures.
However, Members of Parliament raised concerns over what they described as an expanding mandate within the defence docket, particularly involvement in civilian infrastructure projects.
Martha Wangari, the Gilgil MP, questioned the rationale behind the Ministry’s engagement in projects such as the construction of schools, hospitals, and stadiums.
“There are ministries better suited and more competent to handle such functions so that you stick to the mandate,” she said.
Kajiado Central MP Memusi Kanchory echoed the concerns, warning that expanding responsibilities could undermine core defence functions at a time when global threats are intensifying.
“This approach risks distracting core mandates and stretching already limited resources,” he said.
In response, the Ministry defended its involvement, arguing that its participation in such projects is driven by efficiency and institutional capacity, with plans to eventually transfer completed works to relevant line ministries.
