The government has defended the ongoing renovations at State House Nairobi and other state lodges, clarifying that the project is funded by the National Intelligence Service (NIS) and the Department of Defence (DoD).

State House Comptroller Katoo Ole Metito, appearing before the National Assembly Administration and Internal Security Committee, stated that the renovations are necessary for security and maintenance purposes.

KSh3B additional budget

Metito requested an additional KSh3 billion to finalize pending projects, including structural upgrades.

So far, State House Nairobi has spent KSh775 million out of the estimated KSh1.77 billion project cost, with works currently at 44% completion.

The government plans to allocate KSh180 million in the next financial year to continue the renovations.

According to the 2025 Budget Policy Statement, State House has been allocated KSh7.518 billion, with KSh6.8 billion for recurrent expenditure and KSh715.4 million for development.

Metito explained that a large portion of the budget goes toward staff payments, as most presidential personnel are on contract and receive gratuities.

Justification for the upgrades

Metito emphasized that the renovations were necessary due to the deteriorating condition of some buildings.

“In Mombasa, the building was uninhabitable. We must maintain the image of a country that positions itself as a regional power,” he said.

Addressing concerns over the historical integrity of the building, Metito assured the committee that key architectural elements remained unchanged.

“The original roof remains intact. It is still beautiful, and nothing significant has been lost in terms of heritage,” he added.

Criticism over spending amid economic struggles

However, the renovations have sparked criticism, with some leaders questioning the government’s priorities.

Kisumu West MP Rosa Buyu challenged the expenditure, stating, “Kenyans are suffering and are being told to tighten their belts. The first belt to be tightened should be at State House. These renovations can wait until the economy stabilises.”

Scope of renovation projects

The total cost of State House and state lodge refurbishments could reach KSh11.5 billion upon completion.

Renovations are ongoing at State House Nairobi, Mombasa, and Nakuru, as well as state lodges in Eldoret, Sagana, Kisumu, Kakamega, Kisii, and Mtito Andei. Additional projects include construction and civil works worth KSh3 billion and the purchase of specialized equipment and machinery.

Changes to the historic 118-year-old building

State House Nairobi, built in 1907, has undergone significant structural changes.

The once-visible hipped roof with terracotta tiles is now hidden behind a newly added vertical wall along the roofline.

The iconic chimneys have also been removed, and the two drive-through entrance porches have been replaced with a single central porch.

Despite government assurances, the scale and cost of the renovations continue to raise debate over whether such expenditures are justified during tough economic times.