Dr Patrick Mariru, PhD

Today, I conducted a series of site inspection visits in Nyandarua County to assess the progress of key infrastructure projects being implemented under the supervision of the Ministry of Defence. The visits provided an important opportunity to evaluate milestones achieved, identify emerging gaps, and reinforce measures necessary to ensure timely and efficient delivery. Our inspection began at 500 bed JM Kariuki Memorial Hospital in Ol-Kalou. We are at 67% completion. Once finalized, the facility will significantly strengthen healthcare delivery in the region through expanded in-patient capacity, a maternity wing, critical care services, and both main and general wards. I also visited Ol-Kalou Railway Station. The station is completed and we will handover shortly. The plan is to revive Gilgil, Olkalau, Nyahururu Railways services. I also toured Ol-Kalou Stadium. Construction at the stadium remains on schedule, with completion expected by December 2026. I emphasized the need to sustain the current momentum, uphold the highest standards of quality, and strengthen coordination among all stakeholders so that these important projects are delivered successfully and within the stipulated timelines.

Today, in Mombasa, I appeared before the Parliamentary Committee on Defence, Intelligence and Foreign Relations, chaired by Belgut Member of Parliament Hon. Nelson Koech, to present on Budget Implementation Monitoring and the Status of Projects and Programmes for FY 2025/26. The session provided an important platform to account for progress made, highlight key milestones achieved, and outline areas that require enhanced support. I was accompanied by the Vice Chief of the Defence Forces, Lieutenant General John Omenda, alongside general and senior civilian and military officers from the Ministry of Defence. Together, we underscored our commitment to prudent resource utilization, timely execution of priority projects, and the strengthening of accountability mechanisms across the defence sector. The Ministry remains firmly focused on delivering its mandate efficiently, while ensuring that defence programmes are aligned with our broader national development priorities.

Wajir Stadium is taking shape. H.E the President William Samoei Ruto promised that the Stadium will be ready for Madaraka day celebrations on 1st June 2026, and it will be! Today, together with my counterpart from the Ministry of Interior and National Administration, Dr. Raymond Omollo, we conducted a site inspection visit of Wajir Stadium to assess the level of preparedness ahead of the celebrations. The stadium, whose construction is under the supervision of the Ministry of Defence, is progressing well and currently stands at about 65- 70% complete. We also inspected the Wajir State Lodge, which is similarly advancing as planned. Other critical infrastructure development- water, electricity, roads among others are all on course. We were hosted by Wajir Governor H.E Ahmed Abdullahi and his Deputy, Ahmed Muhumed Abdi. Other national and county leaders were also present.

This morning, together with colleagues, I attended the first National Development Implementation Committee (NDIC) meeting of 2026, chaired by the Prime Cabinet Secretary, H.E. Dr. Musalia Mudavadi, at the Kenya School of Government, Nairobi. The meeting aimed at reviewing progress in the implementation of key national development programmes and enhancing coordination across government. Discussions focused on accelerating the delivery of priority projects, addressing implementation challenges, and strengthening accountability to ensure timely and effective service delivery to Kenyans. The forum also underscored the importance of inter-ministerial collaboration in advancing the Government’s development agenda.

To highlight on our military engagements and programs with East African Community partner states, I today appeared before the Parliamentary Committee on Regional Integration, Chaired by Hon. Irene Mayaka. We engaged on the joint military programs including participation in Peace Support Operations, Boarder Security Initiatives, Civil Military Cooperation, Defence Industries and even EAC Games. I was joined by Chief of Operations at the Defence Headquarters, Brigadier Stephen Huria alongside other senior officers.

Today, I joined the Defence Cabinet Secretary, Hon. Soipan Tuya, as she presided over the groundbreaking ceremony of Kabarnet University College in Kabarnet, Baringo County. As a constituent college of Moi University, the institution marks a significant milestone in expanding access to quality higher education. The Ministry of Defence has been entrusted with overseeing and supervising the construction, which will be undertaken in phases. Phase One will focus on core academic infrastructure, including tuition blocks, a library, an auditorium, and an administration block, while Phase Two will deliver additional support facilities. We were hosted by H.E. Benjamin Cheboi, Governor of Baringo County, and joined by the Cabinet Secretary for Gender, Culture, the Arts and Heritage, Mrs. Hannah Cheptumo; the Principal Secretary for Higher Education and Research, Dr. Beatrice Inyangala; Baringo Central Member of Parliament Hon. Joshua Kandie; Moi University Acting Vice Chancellor Prof. Kiplagat Kotut, amongst other distiguished guests. In addition, we conducted a site inspection of the ongoing Kabarnet Stadium project, also under the Ministry of Defence's supervision. Once complete, the facility will strengthen sports infrastructure, nurture talent, support youth development, and stimulate local economic growth.

This morning, I joined members of the Ngong community for the Oloolua Forest run- a unique event that seeks to conserve, protect and celebrate Oloolua ecosystem. I did 10 kms in 58 mins. Also present were my colleagues Principal Secretaries Dr. Chris Kiptoo (Treasury) and Dr. Eng. Festus Ng’eno (Environment), CPA Ephantus Kimotho (Irrigation).

Today, I joined H.E. the President Dr. William Ruto, and the Deputy President, Hon. Kithure Kindiki, for a site inspection visit to Kenneth Matiba Specialist Hospital in Murang’a County. Originally established for eye and dental care, the facility is now responding to a growing number of accident-related cases, necessitating expanded trauma services. A modern Trauma Centre is currently under construction under the supervision of the Ministry of Defence/Kenya Defence Forces. Once complete, the 110 bed- Centre will include main and minor theatres, outpatient services, X-ray facilities and wards.

Kenya and Japan have enjoyed strong and longstanding diplomatic relations since 1964, anchored on sustained high-level engagements and cooperation across key sectors. The two countries share a deep-rooted and enduring partnership, further strengthened through this continued collaboration. This morning at Defence Headquarters, I met H.E. Matsuura Hiroshi, Ambassador of Japan to Kenya, to further deepen Kenya–Japan defence cooperation. We engaged on matters of mutual interest around defence cooperation and collaboration. The meeting was attended by senior Ministry of Defence officials alongside a representative of the Japan Embassy.

This morning, I chaired the Steering Committee on Raila Amollo Odinga International Stadium (Talanta Sports City). The committee brings together various Ministries, Departments and Agencies of government working together to deliver this iconic facility. The Ministry of Defence/KDF is supervising and coordinating implementation of this project. The meeting engaged on delivery of the supporting infrastructure to RAO stadium ecosystem- the water, the roads, the rail, the drainage, the electricity and energy, the security installations among others. As directed by H.E the President William Samoei Ruto, the RAO stadium will be delivered on time, and on standard. The 60,000 seater stadium, that is near completion, is a masterpiece. This is the biggest and most comprehensive sporting infrastructure in Kenya’s history, and the region.

This afternoon, I chaired a multi-agency meeting to review the progress at the Bomas International Convention Complex (BICC). The meeting brought together representatives from various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs). We are working to concurrently deliver both BICC as well as the supporting infrastructure- the water and sewer, the electricity and energy needs, the roads and railway, the fiber connection, the security considerations. The BICC will connect to Raila Amollo Odinga International Stadium along Ngong Road and the wider Nairobi Metropolitan. Upon completion, the BICC will have capacity tp host 11,000 pax. It will enhance Kenya’s capacity to host major international conferences and high-level summits.

Later this afternoon, I conducted a site visit to assess ongoing works at the Kenneth Matiba Hospital and Trauma Centre, Murang'a County. H.E the President William Samoei Ruto earlier promised to have this done. This project is being overseen by the Ministry of Defence. The new block at the Kenneth Matiba Hospital and Trauma Centre will house an operation theatre, imaging room, outpatient clinic and a clinical ward. Construction works for the block is currently at 45% complete and progressing steadily. I was with senior officials from both national and county governments.

Earlier today, I conducted a site inspection of Githunguri Level V Hospital in Kiambu County, a key health infrastructure project being implemented under the supervision of the Ministry of Defence. I am satisfied with the work done so far. The main block is technically done. The utility block- comprising of kitchen and laundry is near complete. This is in line with H.E the President William Samoei Ruto earlier directive. The whole facility will be done by end of this April, 2026. And ready for handover. So that the people of Kiambu and beyond can receive medical services from this premier facility.

The Ministry of Defence is overseeing construction of a new medical block at the Mutuini Specialist Hospital, Dagoreti South, Nairobi County. This afternoon, I conducted a site inspection at the hospital to assess progress. This project is being implemented in close collaboration with the Ministry of Health and the Nairobi County Government as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen healthcare infrastructure and service delivery. The project is now 91% complete. It will be completed in the next two weeks as instructed by H.E the President William Samoei Ruto The specialised block will host critical units including Renal, Burns, Trauma, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and ICU services, significantly enhancing access to specialised healthcare. With me were Colonel in charge of Special Projects at Defence Headquarters Gabriel Kibuchi, CEO Mutuini Hospital Dr. Martin Wafula, Medical Superintendent Dr. Ray Ojwang, among other hospital representatives.

This morning, I joined the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Forces, H.E. Dr. William Ruto, and the Deputy President of the Republic of Kenya, H.E. Kithure Kindiki, as he laid the foundation stone for Nyamira University College in Nyamira County. Ministry of Defence will supervise the construction works. Together with the Ministry of Education and Nyamira County Government. Also present were the Cabinet Secretary for Education, Hon. Migos Ogamba; the Governor of Nyamira County, Hon. Amos Nyaribo; the Solicitor General, Hon. Shadrack Mose; and Principal Secretaries Mr. Elijah Mwangi (Sports), and Mr. Stephen Isaboke (Broadcasting and Telecommunications), among other national and county leaders.

Today, I joined H.E the President Dr. William Ruto in Kisii County where he broke ground for the construction of Gusii stadium. The modern stadium will have a 14,000 seat capacity, fitted with a canopy, standard running track, and modern changing rooms. The Ministry of Defence will oversee and supervise the construction in partnership with the Ministry of Sports and Kisii County Government. The stadium will support sports development, nurture local talent, and boost economic activity in the county and surrounding areas. Also present were Sports Cabinet Secretary, Hon. Salim Mvurya, Cabinet Secretary for Education, Mr. Julius Ogamba, PS Sports Elijah Mwangi, PS Broadcasting and Telecommunications. Steve Isaboke, and Kisii Governor H.E Hon. Simba Arati, among other national and local leaders.

Today, I joined H.E the President Dr. William Ruto, for the groundbreaking ceremony of a 10,000-seater Voi Stadium in Taita Taveta County. The construction of this facility will be supervised by the Ministry of Defence, working with the State Department for Sports and Taita Taveta County. Also present was Sports Cabinet Secretary, Hon. Salim Mvurya, Governor of Taita Taveta County, Hon. Andrew Mwadime, PS Sports Elijah Mwangi among other National and County leaders.

This afternoon I presented the Military Veterans (General) Regulations, 2025 before the Parliamentary Committee on Delegated Legislation that was chaired by the Committee's Vice Chairperson, Hon. Robert Gichumu Githinji. The proposed Regulations seek to operationalize key provisions of the Military Veterans Act and provide clear guidelines on the management of veterans’ affairs, ensuring structured support systems and improved coordination in addressing the needs of our veterans. The country is ever grateful for the sacrifice and service of our military personnel. When they retire, the country should, to the extent possible, take care of them. It's the best practice globally. I was accompanied by a team from the Ministry of Defence including the Director General of the Directorate of Military Veterans (DMV) Brigadier Moses Leriari.

We remain committed to strengthening partnerships that prioritize the well-being of our military personnel by ensuring our KDF healthcare systems are robust, responsive, and fully aligned with national priorities. Today, I visited Afya House, where I held a productive meeting with PS Medical Services, Dr. Ouma Oluga. Our discussions focused on enhancing collaboration between the Ministry of Defence and the Ministry of Health to better serve our soldiers. We explored practical ways of aligning Defence health services with national healthcare frameworks. With me from the Defence Headquarters were Director of Medical Services, Brigadier Japheth Ndegwa and the Chief of Medical Services Brigadier Muithya Ngundo. Also present were other senior officials from both Ministries.

Today, I joined the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Forces, H.E. Dr. William Ruto, the Deputy President, Hon. Prof. Kithure Kindiki, other national and local leaders and the family of the late Member of Parliament of Ol-Kalau Constituency in Ol-Kalou for the funeral service and final send-off of the fallen leader- Hon David Kiaraho. We gathered to honour a dedicated servant who led the people of Ol-Kalau with commitment, humility, and a deep sense of duty. Hon. Kiaraho will be remembered for his steadfast leadership and tireless efforts in championing development and improving the welfare of his constituents. His passing is a great loss not only to the people of Ol-Kalou but also to the nation at large.