Kenya’s military personnel allegedly grapple with poor salaries and neglect, sparking criticism from various quarters.
Dr Isaac Newton Kinity, a former Secretary-General of the Kenya Civil Servants Union, has advocated for improved pay and working conditions for the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF).
He highlights that the minimum salary for a KDF recruit stands at Kshs 7,172 (about $55), insufficient to cover basic needs and far lower than what neighbouring countries offer their soldiers.
Dr. Kinity compares Kenya’s military salaries with those in East Africa, revealing stark differences.
Tanzanian soldiers earn a minimum of Tsh 1,050,050 (about $413), while their counterparts in Burundi and Rwanda receive approximately $178 and $170, respectively.
Despite Kenya’s relatively stable currency, its military personnel earn significantly less than their regional peers.
Dr.Isaac Newton Kinity, formerly the Secretary General of the Kenya Civil Servants Union, in previous events: photo courtesy.
He further notes that civil servants in Kenya earn at least twice the salary of a military recruit, a disparity he sees as unjust.
The inability of soldiers to form unions to fight for their rights only worsens their situation, leaving them without a voice in demanding fair wages and better treatment.
Dr Kinity criticizes the government for allocating vast resources to politicians while neglecting the welfare of its military personnel.
He points out that Kenyan legislators enjoy hefty salaries, allowances, and benefits, yet soldiers struggle to make ends meet. \
Recent cuts to allowances under President William Ruto’s administration have further diminished military incomes, making their financial burdens even heavier.
He questions the government’s priorities, arguing that while politicians indulge in luxuries like expensive watches and helicopters, soldiers and their families face financial hardship.
He suggests that a reasonable minimum salary of Kshs 65,000 ($507) would allow officers to live decently and cover essential expenses, including rent, food, and medical emergencies.
Dr. Kinity also highlights corruption as a key factor in the mismanagement of military welfare, condemning leaders who misuse public funds while denying soldiers a livable wage.
He asserts that failing to provide military personnel with fair pay and representation is a betrayal of their sacrifices for the country.
Calling for urgent reforms, Dr Kinity urges Kenyans to demand accountability from their leaders, arguing that addressing these disparities is essential for the country’s progress.
He proposes a minimum salary of at least Kshs 50,000 ($500) and the establishment of military unions to advocate for better pay and working conditions.
The plight of Kenya’s soldiers reflects deeper issues of inequality and governance failures.
Dr Kinity’s advocacy underscores the need for urgent reforms to ensure that military personnel receive the dignity, respect, and fair compensation they deserve.
