Inspector General Douglas Kanja during the pass-out parade at Kiganjo on August 28, 2026/NPSInspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has assured Kenyans that newly trained police officers are adequately prepared to confront the security challenges facing the country as they begin their careers in the National Police Service.
Kanja said the officers who graduated from the National Police College Main Campus in Kiganjo, Nyeri County, underwent rigorous training designed to equip them with the knowledge, skills and competencies required for modern policing.
The passing-out parade was presided over by President William Ruto.
The IG, however, challenged the graduands to complement their training with professionalism, integrity and respect for the law once deployed to various stations across the country.
“It is not a mere job opportunity,” Kanja said, urging the officers to approach their duties with a strong sense of purpose and responsibility.
“After nine months of intense police training, I confirm that they have acquired all the competencies required for modern-day policing,” he said.
The IG urged the officers to uphold the Constitution and the rule of law while protecting the rights and freedoms of all Kenyans, saying the authority entrusted to them must be exercised responsibly to maintain public confidence in the service.
The graduation also marked a new chapter in police training, with officers receiving part of their practical and tactical instruction outside the traditional Kiganjo setting.
Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat said the cohort was the first to undergo training beyond the National Police College Main Campus.
The over 6,000 recruits undertook part of their training at the newly established Magado Field Training Camp in Igembe North, Meru County.
Lagat said the move had expanded the service’s capacity to provide practical and tactical training while exposing officers to different operational environments.
“We are particularly proud to witness the graduation of this inaugural cohort. We are happy to present to you officers who have been tested, trained and prepared for the job ahead,” he said.
The DIG urged the new officers to approach their assignments with dedication and a commitment to serving Kenyans regardless of their backgrounds.
“The uniform you wear is your call to service,” Lagat said.
He also commended the Commandant and the training team for preparing the officers for the demands of policing.
“I thank the Commandant and the entire training team for a job well done,” he said.
Lagat also recognised the role played by families in supporting the recruits during their nine-month training.
“To the families, thank you for standing with these officers throughout the training period,” he added.
According to police sources, this remains the largest contingent that has undergone the nine-month training, transforming them from civilians to well-trained officers ready for national service.
The new officers are expected to take up their respective postings and play a critical role in maintaining law and order as the country heads to the general election next year, putting into practice the skills acquired during their nine-month training.
