Has KDF Scrapped Free Soldier Lunches? Army Commander David Ketter Breaks Silence on PAYE Rumors

The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) has strongly denied rumors that it is cutting lunch allowances from soldiers’ payslips. This came after rising concerns among service members and the public about a new meal program launched on July 1. 

Lieutenant General David Ketter, Commander of the Kenya Army, spoke during his first official baraza at the Kenya Army Headquarters in Ngao Gardens, Nairobi, on Tuesday, July 23. He addressed the ongoing confusion about the new Pay-As-You-Eat (PAYE) meal system. 

General Ketter made it clear that KDF has not scrapped free meals nor started deducting money from soldiers’ salaries. “There is no deduction from payslips, and lunch allowances are not being redirected through DESACCO,” he said. “These are just false stories that have caused unnecessary panic.” 

The PAYE system had sparked fear, with some claiming that it was a hidden plan to remove soldiers’ free meals. This led to tension within army camps and even sparked discussions on social media. Some soldiers reportedly skipped meals in protest, worried that their already tight salaries were being reduced further. 

However, the Commander explained that the PAYE system is about giving soldiers more freedom. Instead of a one-size-fits-all meal plan, the new system allows each soldier to decide what they want to eat, when they want to eat, and where. 

“The PAYE model is built on the idea of choice,” Lt Gen Ketter said. “Each service member can now select food that fits their personal taste, culture, and health needs. Food is deeply personal, and we understand that.” 

He also assured everyone that all soldiers, whether officers or lower-ranking personnel, receive the same meal allowance. This allowance is not disappearing, just being redirected into a system that offers flexibility and fairness. 

To make this process smooth, KDF has introduced a mobile app that soldiers can use to book and pay for meals quickly and easily. This, the commander said, will improve convenience and reduce confusion. 

Lt Gen Ketter also said KDF cafeterias in military camps will be upgraded. The goal is to provide clean, fast, and reliable dining services so that soldiers can enjoy their meals without long waits or bad service. 

His message was clear: the well-being of soldiers is a top priority. “We understand that a hungry soldier cannot fight,” Ketter said. “That’s why this new system is about improving, not removing, your access to food.” 

The baraza also gave the Commander a chance to outline his leadership vision. He emphasized the importance of discipline, honesty, and teamwork in achieving KDF’s goals. His speech was well-received, especially because it directly addressed the fears many soldiers had been whispering about in recent weeks. 

Some soldiers had earlier told local media that they were shocked to see lower payslips this month and feared it was tied to the new meal system. But KDF has now officially denied those claims and asked soldiers not to panic. 

“We want our personnel focused on their mission, not distracted by false rumors,” said Lt Gen Ketter. 

He also criticized those spreading lies about DESACCO, saying the Defense Savings and Credit Cooperative Society has not been involved in any meal deductions. 

As part of his reforms, Lt Gen Ketter has promised more open communication with troops. This includes more regular baraza meetings, where soldiers can ask questions and get straight answers from leadership. 

In conclusion, the PAYE system is not a punishment, but a modern way to give Kenya’s soldiers better meal choices. It is also part of a wider reform effort aimed at increasing transparency and improving service delivery within the KDF. 

By setting the record straight, Lt Gen David Ketter has brought calm to the camps and reaffirmed that KDF stands by its soldiers. The lunch table is still open, and no one is going hungry, unless they choose to.