The Ministry of Defence has unveiled plans to hold a public auction of decommissioned vehicles, equipment, and general stores across several key military installations nationwide. This initiative opens a rare opportunity for individuals, businesses, and collectors to acquire government assets at competitive prices, with the auction process designed to be transparent and accessible.
Auction Locations and Schedule
The public sale will take place at multiple military facilities around the country, allowing participants from different regions to attend without having to travel far. The confirmed locations include:
-
Kenya Navy Base (Mtongwe, Mombasa Region)
-
43 Ordnance Company (Nanyuki Region)
-
DEFOD Depot (Kahawa, Nairobi Region)
-
Ordnance Composite Company (Lanet, Nakuru Region)
-
63 Ordnance Company (Garissa Region)
At each venue, the auction will begin at a set time and feature distinct lots of vehicles and equipment so bidders know exactly what’s available in each sale yard.
Inspection and Catalogue Requirements
Before bidding, interested buyers must inspect the items on offer. Viewing runs during regular working hours — typically from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on weekdays, excluding public holidays. Inspection dates are scheduled well in advance of the auction itself to give bidders time to decide.
To attend the inspection or participate in the auction, buyers must first purchase an official auction catalogue. These catalogues list item details, conditions, and lot numbers. They cost a non-refundable KSh 1,000 and can be obtained at designated Ministry of Defence offices at each listing location.
Participation Process and Deposits
To secure a bidding number, participants must pay a refundable deposit:
-
KSh 50,000 for vehicles
-
KSh 30,000 for equipment and general stores
These deposits are paid in cash to the Ministry before the viewing period ends. Each bidder receives a unique bidding number allowing them to participate in one lot only.
At the fall of the hammer, successful bidders pay 25% of their winning offer immediately and must settle the remaining balance within 14 days to avoid penalties. Failure to complete payment can result in the award being cancelled and deposits forfeited.
Post-Auction Obligations
Once a bidder wins an item, several requirements apply before the asset can be taken home or used legally:
Collection Window
Winners must collect their items within 30 days of full payment. Beyond that, a storage fee of 1% of the bid price per day will be charged — up to a maximum of three months. Items not collected within that period may be forfeited along with paid funds.
VAT and Revenue Clearances
Successful bidders are responsible for paying value-added tax (VAT) where applicable and complying with Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) clearance requirements. This ensures all statutory obligations are met before items leave the sale yard.
Vehicle Repainting and Registration
Ex-military vehicles must be repainted in civilian color schemes prior to being driven on public roads. Vehicles should also not be operated using former military number plates — doing so can lead to impoundment or legal penalties.
Additional Auction Rules
The Ministry retains the right to reject offers below reserve prices without explanation. Unsuccessful bidders are refunded their deposits upon presenting original receipts.
This auction presents a cost-effective opportunity for Kenyans and businesses to acquire vehicles and equipment that might otherwise be inaccessible — provided interested parties prepare in advance and meet all participation criteria.
Why This Matters
Auctions of government assets like this not only help recycle public property efficiently but also encourage private investment and reuse of resources. For entrepreneurs, motor-trade businesses, and everyday citizens, it’s a chance to access vehicles and equipment that can be refurbished, repurposed, or used for productive activities — often at prices significantly lower than market rates.
0 Comments