Environment Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has shed light on the team responsible for the recent facelift of State House Nairobi, emphasizing that the architectural and engineering work was undertaken by Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) professionals.
Speaking during an interview on Sunday, February 3, Duale explained that the design process followed a structured approval system, with oversight from the Controller of State House.
“The architects and engineers working on State House are from the Kenya Defence Forces. The Controller of State House approves the design. Everything we do, including the renovations, is anchored in law. It is not an informal process; it follows legal procedures,” he clarified.
Duale further justified the facelift, stating that the upgrades should have been carried out under previous administrations to maintain the integrity of the country’s highest office.
“This renovation should have happened long ago—not just during President Uhuru Kenyatta’s tenure but even under President Mwai Kibaki. The presidency represents the country, much like the airport does. What we aim to avoid is unnecessary spending on projects that do not benefit the citizens,” he remarked.
The revamped State House was officially showcased on Monday, January 27, when President William Ruto hosted Guinea Bissau President Umaro Sissoco Embalo.
The renovations introduced a modern flat-roof design, replacing the traditional colonial-era tiled roofing, along with a fresh white exterior finish.
The makeover has sparked divided opinions among Kenyans. While some have lauded the modernization, arguing that it aligns with contemporary architectural trends, others have criticized the alterations, viewing them as an unnecessary departure from a historic landmark.
Critics contend that significant modifications to heritage structures should be regulated to preserve Kenya’s architectural and historical identity.
