President Ruto Says Sh21bn Invested in Police Modernisation Programme

In September 18, 2023, President William Ruto revealed that Sh21 billion has been allocated from the Sh30 billion budget towards the Police Modernisation Programme. The aim of this initiative is to equip the National Police Service with advanced tools, technology, and capabilities to better protect and serve Kenyan citizens. These improvements include protective equipment, mobility enhancements, air support, secure communication systems, surveillance, command-and-control systems, and digital capabilities.

Speaking at the 50th General Service Unit (GSU) recruits Pass-Out Parade held at the National Police College, in Utawala, Nairobi, President Ruto emphasized the government's commitment to strengthening police training in various areas such as counter-terrorism, intelligence-led operations, public order management, forensic investigations, cybercrime, emergency response, and the lawful use of force.

Furthermore, the government is addressing the housing situation of police officers and their families via the Institutional Housing component of the Affordable Housing Programme. So far, 28,000 housing units are being developed across the nation, out of which 870 units have been completed, 12,000 are under construction, over 1,500 are at the procurement stage, and 15,000 are planned for development.

Healthcare for police officers has also been improved, with over 138,000 police and prison officers now enrolled under the Usalama medical scheme through the Social Health Authority (SHA). Officers can now access over 8,000 health facilities nationwide, compared to the previous arrangement of just 973 facilities. Additionally, a newly constructed SHA Block was commissioned at the GSU Health Centre within the National Police College to cater to the medical needs of officers and their families.

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen reported that police sector reforms have started yielding positive results. He cited improved security in areas previously affected by conflict and banditry, particularly in Kerio Valley, where Operation Maliza Uhalifu has helped restore normalcy. Inspector-General of Police Douglas Kanja praised the modernisation programme for boosting the capacity of police officers to carry out their duties.

President Ruto urged the National Police Service to uphold law and order without bias or favor during the upcoming 2027 General Election, while maintaining the highest standards of professionalism. He cautioned officers against engaging in partisan political contests or following unlawful instructions from political leaders. The President also reminded officers that the Constitution protects them from any assault, threats, or intimidation for performing their lawful duties, assuring them of Government support in carrying out their responsibilities with integrity.