The National Assembly Departmental Committee on Defence, Intelligence and Foreign Relations today held a joint induction retreat with the Ministry of Defence.

During the retreat, the Chairperson of the Committee Hon. Nelson Koech noted that enhanced knowledge for Members and Ministry officials on their mandate and, deeper collaboration with the National Assembly is a critical ingredient for service delivery to Kenyans.

"We seek to synergize and harmonize our competence and leadership skills to deliver on our mandate and obligations to the Kenyan people," said Hon. Koech.

Speaking at the retreat the Cabinet Secretary for Defence Hon. Aden Duale said the institution of Parliament was a critical stakeholder and a critical line of defence for the State.

"The Parliamentary Committee on Defence, Intelligence and Foreign Relations is a pivotal player, especially in the budgetary allocation and financing that has helped in the smooth running of the affairs in the Ministry of Defence," said Hon. Duale.

The Principal Secretary for Defence Hon. Patrick Mariru, who had previously served as a Member of the Speaker's Panel in the 12th Parliament, said he would use his previous Parliamentary experience to deepen strategic collaboration with the Committee.

Also, present at the retreat were the Vice Chief of Defence Forces (VCDF) Lt. Gen. Francis Ogolla and other senior Ministry and Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) officials.