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The State House, the official residence of the President of Kenya, is set to undergo a major upgrade that will cost taxpayers Sh795 million, according to the budget estimates for the 2023/24 financial year.
The upgrade, which will include refurbishment of the main house, guest wing, staff quarters, gate house, and perimeter wall, is expected to take 18 months to complete. During this period, President William Ruto will work away from the State House and use other official facilities in Nairobi.
The State House upgrade is part of the Sh1.9 billion allocated to the Presidency in the budget, which also covers the expenses of the Deputy President, the Cabinet Office, and the State House Comptroller.
The budget estimates, which were tabled in Parliament last week, have sparked criticism from some lawmakers and civil society groups, who have questioned the need and timing of the upgrade amid the economic challenges facing the country due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
They have also accused the government of prioritizing non-essential projects over more pressing needs such as health, education, and social protection.
However, the State House Comptroller, Kinuthia Mbugua, has defended the upgrade, saying that it is necessary to maintain the dignity and security of the State House, which was built in 1907 and last renovated in 1998.
He said that the upgrade will also improve the functionality and efficiency of the State House, which hosts various local and international dignitaries and events.
He added that the upgrade will be done in phases and will not disrupt the normal operations of the State House.
