A new report by Controller of Budget Margaret Nyakang’o has revealed alleged massive wastage of public funds in the Executive Office of the President, raising fresh questions about government spending despite repeated pledges of austerity by President William Ruto.
According to the report covering the 2024/2025 financial year, State House spent an average of Ksh2.2 million per day on printing services. Out of the Ksh4 billion budget allocated to the President’s office, Ksh817 million was spent on printing annually, translating to Ksh68 million monthly.
What Printing Costs Covered
The report notes that the printing expenditure covered:
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Government policies, executive orders, and directives.
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Performance contracts and weekly press statements.
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Periodic communications during national crises.
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Regional media forums.
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High-quality invitation cards for frequent State House engagements.
Other Spending Highlights in the Report
Beyond printing, Nyakang’o flagged Ksh1.9 billion spent on general administration, planning and support services, and Ksh750 million on leadership and coordination.
The Office of the President also spent heavily on advisory services:
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Ksh1 billion on advisers.
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Ksh62 million on Kenya–South Sudan advisory services.
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Ksh46 million on Power of Mercy advisory.
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Ksh97 million on Economic and Social Affairs advisory.
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Ksh150 million on strategic policy advisory.
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Ksh251 million on oversight of public entities.
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Ksh765 million on leadership and coordination advisory.
In addition, Ksh399 million was spent on refurbishment of the President’s office, part of a Ksh1.2 billion construction bill that is expected to continue until 2027, with works currently 66% complete.
Public Accountability Questions
The findings have stirred public debate, given President Ruto’s earlier calls for austerity measures and tighter fiscal discipline. The revelations are likely to renew scrutiny on how taxpayer money is being utilized within the highest office in the country.
