Deputy Inspector General of the Kenya Police Service Eliud Lagat has underscored the importance of the tough conditions at the Magadi Field Campus in shaping General Service Unit (GSU) recruits into elite police officers.
Lagat said the high temperatures and rugged terrain at the Kajiado-based training facility test the body, sharpen the mind and build character, preparing officers to serve in difficult environments.
“Let me start by saying that Magadi is not an easy place to train, and that is precisely why it is critical to police training,” he said.
“Its heat, rugged terrain and demanding conditions test the body, sharpen the mind and build character.”
The DIG spoke on Friday at Magadi while presiding over the closure of the field training course for the 1A/2025 group.
He said the training equips recruits with the skills required to discharge their duties regardless of the conditions under which they are deployed.
“This is the purpose of Magadi. It reminds us that a police officer does not choose the conditions under which duty will be called,” Lagat said.
“You must be ready to serve where you are deployed, whenever you are called upon and whatever the circumstances.”
He said the recruits had developed endurance, survival skills, discipline, teamwork and technological competence needed for modern policing.
Lagat urged the officers to maintain high standards of discipline, fairness and professionalism while remaining firm, courageous and humane in the execution of their duties.
“Take these lessons into every assignment. Stand firm. Stay disciplined. Be fair. Be humane. Serve with courage,” he said.
He also commended the commanders for their dedication and commitment throughout the training period.
“I commend you for equipping them with the skills, discipline and professionalism required to serve with honour and distinction,” he said.
Lagat said Magadi had a proud legacy of producing some of the finest officers in the National Police Service.
“From Kowop in Samburu to Ol Pejeta, Ngong, Kora and finally to this site in Magadi in 1981, this camp has remained a place where officers are tested, hardened and prepared for the realities of duty,” he said.
The DIG said the demanding nature of the training was intended to instil resilience and adaptability among officers who could be called upon to operate in diverse parts of the country.
He reminded the recruits that their responsibilities would extend beyond physical endurance and operational readiness to include respect for the law and protection of citizens’ rights.
Lagat urged them to apply the lessons learnt at Magadi with humility and professionalism, saying public trust remained central to effective policing.
The course closure marked the completion of the field training programme, with the recruits expected to proceed to their next assignments after completing the required training and assessment.
