NIS Director Urges Parliament to Approve Full Budget Amid Mounting Security Threats
On May 12, 2025, National Intelligence Service (NIS) Director General Noordin Haji appeared before the National Assembly’s Committee on Defence, Foreign Relations, and Intelligence to urge Parliament to approve the agency’s full budget request of Ksh 65 billion for the 2025/2026 fiscal year. Haji warned that the current allocation of Ksh 51 billion leaves a deficit of Ksh 14 billion, which could undermine Kenya’s ability to respond effectively to growing national and regional security threats.
Mounting Security Challenges
Haji outlined the increasing complexity and urgency of security challenges facing Kenya, including terrorism, cross-border incursions, cyberattacks, and the spread of misinformation. He specifically cited the activities of armed groups such as Al-Shabaab and the Oromo Liberation Army, as well as the rampant smuggling of small arms from neighboring countries, as key threats. Without sufficient funding, Haji warned, security agencies would be ill-equipped to confront these multifaceted dangers.
The Case for Enhanced Funding
The NIS initially proposed a budget of Ksh 65 billion to strengthen its operations, but the Treasury allocated only Ksh 51 billion. Haji emphasized that the additional Ksh 14 billion is essential for acquiring modern surveillance and intelligence equipment, improving operational readiness, and upgrading critical infrastructure. He also noted that some frontline military units have not received essential equipment updates in over a decade, further highlighting the urgency of the funding request.
A Shift Toward Transparency
In a notable departure from the traditional secrecy surrounding intelligence matters, Haji openly discussed the agency’s financial needs, signaling a shift toward greater transparency and accountability. He appealed to lawmakers to treat national security as a top budgetary priority, stating, “We must ask ourselves whether we are genuinely committed to giving Kenyans the security they deserve.”
Parliamentary Deliberations Ahead
The parliamentary committee, chaired by Belgut MP Nelson Koech, is expected to review the budget proposal further as part of the broader national budget planning process for the upcoming fiscal year. Haji’s testimony underscores the urgent need for sufficient funding to protect Kenya’s sovereignty and stability in an increasingly volatile global security environment.
As the nation awaits Parliament’s decision, Haji’s candid remarks may set a new precedent for open and constructive engagement between intelligence agencies and legislative bodies—paving the way for a more collaborative approach to national defense.
