The National Police Service is set for a major upgrade this year with the planned arrival of 3,000 vehicles this year as part of a major government initiative to enable them safeguard the country more efficiently.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen said the first batch of 1,000 new vehicles scheduled for delivery in the next few months.
Speaking during an interdenominational prayer service at the National Police College, Embakasi A Campus, the CS stated that the modernisation programme within the service is ongoing.
He stated that Sh28 billion has been allocated over the next two years for the acquisition of state-of-the-art protective gear and armoured vehicles.
“The government is steadfast in its commitment to improve the welfare of police officers and transform the National Police Service into a modern, professional and well-equipped force capable of guaranteeing the safety and security of all Kenyans,” he said.
Murkomen also lauded his predecessor, current Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, for implementing various reforms in line with the recommendations of the David Maraga Taskforce.
He cited the ongoing digitisation of police operations and the significant progress made in improving police welfare.
Starting in July 2024, lower-cadre officers received a salary increment of up to 20 per cent, and an additional 10 per cent hike is set to take effect this year.
To further support officers, Murkomen said that the government has rolled out a comprehensive medical scheme that ensures access to quality healthcare.
“Housing remains a priority, with 582 units already delivered and 1,000 more under construction, forming part of the government’s ambitious plan to provide 17,000 new housing units under the Affordable Housing Programme,” the CS said, adding that plans are also in the pipeline to spruce up police stations across the country.
The CS also praised Kenya’s growing leadership in security matters, citing the Kenya-led Multinational Security Support Mission (MSS) in Haiti in which 400 officers have been deployed to combat gang violence.
Locally, the multi-agency operation 'Maliza Uhalifu North Rift' has resulted in a 62 per cent reduction in cattle rustling, while counter-terrorism efforts have lowered Kenya’s risk of terrorist attacks significantly.
Murkomen also pledged to support the Inspector General of Police in tackling mental health challenges in the Police Service.
“We should avoid criminalising attempted suicide and instead foster a culture of support for those in need.”
Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo on his part urged the officers to bring out the good image of the service.
"There is need to appreciate the police officers who make it possible for us to go about our daily lives without being disturbed,” Omollo said, adding that the police reforms aimed at improving police welfare through the implementation of the Maraga recommendations are well on course.
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja thanked police officers for their sacrifice.
Present during the interdenominational prayers were Deputy Inspector General (APS) Gilbert Masengeli, Deputy Inspector General (KPS), Eliud Lagat, Bishop Kibet, pastors and bishops from various denominations.
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