Kenya: Education, Security Claims Largest Slice of Sh4.3 Trillion Mbadi Budget

Education has taken the lions share in the Sh4.3 trillion 2026/27 national budget unveiled by Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi.

Mbadi while reading the budget estimates in parliament Thursday asserted that the allocations underscores the government's strategy of investing heavily in human capital as the foundation for long-term economic transformation.

The sector received a massive Sh784.5 billion allocation, the largest share of government spending and nearly a fifth of the entire budget.

"Kenya's future depends on developing strong human capital," said Mbadi.

"This comprehensive allocation safeguards service delivery and expands opportunities across the learning continuum."

According to the budget statement, the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) received the lion's share of education funding at Sh424.3 billion, accounting for more than half of the sector's total allocation.

Higher education institutions were allocated Sh163.9 billion to support universities, student financing and research programmes, while basic education received Sh136.6 billion to facilitate learning in primary and secondary schools.

The government also earmarked Sh58.5 billion for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), reflecting growing emphasis on skills development and job creation through vocational training.

National security emerged as the second-largest beneficiary of government spending with a combined allocation of Sh567.4 billion.

The Defence Ministry received Sh252.1 billion, making it the single-largest allocation outside the education sector. The National Police Service was allocated Sh144.7 billion, while the National Intelligence Service received Sh64.1 billion.

The State Department for Internal Security and National Administration was allocated Sh63.9 billion, while prison services received Sh42.6 billion.

Mbadi noted that security spending remains critical to sustaining economic growth and investor confidence.

Infrastructure remained a major priority, with the roads sector receiving Sh220.4 billion to improve connectivity and support trade.

Road maintenance received the largest share at Sh118.1 billion, signaling a shift towards preserving existing infrastructure assets. Rehabilitation of roads was allocated Sh58 billion, while construction of roads and bridges received Sh44.3 billion.

The Treasury argued that improved infrastructure lowers the cost of doing business, facilitates movement of goods and services, and opens up new economic opportunities.

The health sector also secured significant funding, although allocations were s