President William Ruto has directed the Interior Ministry to develop a framework for the establishment of a dedicated Nairobi Metropolitan Police Unit within the next 60 days.
Speaking at State House on Tuesday, the President said the new unit will work closely with Nairobi County security teams to enhance safety and restore public confidence in the capital.
He emphasised that security in the capital city is central to Kenya’s economic growth and global standing.
“We must make Nairobi safe for visitors, investors and business alike,” the President said.
“Security is non-negotiable for a modern capital like Nairobi. I therefore direct the Cabinet Secretary for Interior to prepare and present, within 60 days, a framework for a dedicated Nairobi Metropolitan Police Unit. We will make Nairobi safe for citizens, visitors, investors, and businesses alike,” Ruto said.
The President noted that Nairobi’s position as Kenya’s capital places a heavy responsibility on both the national and county governments to ensure efficiency, order and high standards of service delivery.
“For many visitors and investors, Nairobi is not just the face of Kenya; Nairobi is Kenya. That standing carries a serious obligation — a capital city must work. It must function. It must meet the highest standards of order, infrastructure, efficiency, and service delivery not only for its 4.4 million residents, but also for the millions who depend on it every day,” he stated.
The proposed unit is expected to strengthen coordination between national security agencies and county enforcement structures, amid growing concern over crime and urban safety in the capital.
If implemented, the specialised metropolitan police framework could mark a significant shift in how security operations are structured within Nairobi, positioning the city as a safer hub for commerce, tourism and international engagement.
Ruto further clarified that the national government is not taking over the management of Nairobi, insisting that the county administration remains fully in charge of running the capital.
Speaking during a function on Tuesday, Ruto dismissed claims that recent engagements between the national government and Nairobi County amount to a transfer of functions.
“What we are formalising today is not a transfer of functions. Let me repeat — there is no transfer of functions taking place,” the President said.
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