Kenya’s national government spent more than 25 billion shillings—around $190 million—on local and international travel in the past financial year, according to the country’s budget watchdog.
The figure, released by Controller of Budget Margaret Nyakang’o, has reignited debate about wasteful spending at a time when the government has been urging citizens to tighten their belts.
Dr Nyakang’o said the cost of travel by the executive arm of government had reached “unsustainable levels.” The sum, she noted, came despite repeated promises by President William Ruto to rein in expenses.
“It is important that government demonstrates restraint, especially where resources are scarce,” she said in her latest report.
Broken pledges
Mr Ruto, who came to office two years ago, pledged in 2023 to slash the government’s travel budget by half. He promised to save about 11 billion shillings annually, money he said would instead go to development projects.
But the latest data shows the opposite trend. Spending has risen, drawing criticism from opposition leaders and civil society groups who accuse the government of ignoring its own austerity pledges.
“The president told Kenyans to prepare for sacrifice, yet his administration is globe-trotting at public expense,” opposition lawmaker Opiyo Wandayi said in parliament on Tuesday.
Government officials have defended the travel as necessary for diplomacy and investment. “The president has been engaging partners abroad to bring resources and opportunities back to Kenya,” State House spokesperson Hussein Mohamed told reporters.
Public frustration
The revelation comes amid rising discontent over the cost of living. Inflation has eroded household incomes, while taxes introduced earlier this year have fuelled street protests.
For many Kenyans, the government’s travel bill has become a symbol of misplaced priorities. “We are told to pay more taxes while they spend billions on flights,” said Jane Mwangi, a shopkeeper in Nairobi. “It doesn’t make sense.”
Analysts say the watchdog’s report could heighten political pressure on Mr Ruto as he struggles to balance his reform agenda with growing public anger.
The government is expected to present its full expenditure review later this month. Opposition lawmakers say they will push for stricter caps on non-essential spending, including overseas trips.
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