The government has raised the entry-level basic salary of police officers by 36 per cent as part of ongoing reforms aimed at improving the welfare, professionalism and operational capacity of the National Police Service.
The salary increase, which has been accompanied by upward adjustments across all police ranks, was highlighted as 5,080 Administration Police Service constables passed out at the National Police College, Embakasi ‘A’ Campus, in Nairobi.
President William Ruto presided over the passing-out parade as the new officers prepared to join the security services at a time when the government is seeking to strengthen the fight against banditry, terrorism and other security threats.
The government said the salary adjustments are part of broader efforts to improve the welfare of police officers and motivate them to effectively discharge their constitutional mandate.
“We have raised the entry-level basic salary by 36 per cent, with upward adjustments across all ranks,” Kipchumba Murkomen said, noting that officers’ welfare remains a key component of the police reform agenda.
Access to healthcare has also been strengthened through the Usalama Cover, alongside improvements to police medical facilities.
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The government said mental health awareness initiatives among police officers had been intensified, while a police housing programme was also underway to improve the living conditions of officers.
Beyond welfare, reforms have targeted police training, with the curriculum enhanced to incorporate human rights and constitutionalism.
The government said it was also investing in modern equipment and technology to improve security operations and enable officers to respond more effectively to emerging threats.
The 5,080 newly trained Administration Police constables are expected to complement existing security teams in combating banditry and terrorism, strengthening border security and improving the country’s response capabilities.
The government congratulated the new officers and urged them to uphold professionalism and remain committed to protecting the Constitution.
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Their deployment is expected to boost security operations in various parts of the country as the government continues efforts to enhance the capacity of the National Police Service.
The Ministry of Interior and National Administration also pledged to safeguard the independence of the National Police Service from external interference.
It said the service must remain professional, impartial and capable of delivering its constitutional mandate effectively.
The government maintained that the reforms would continue to focus on improving police welfare, strengthening professionalism and equipping officers with the skills and resources required to keep Kenyans safe.
“As a Ministry, we will continue to safeguard the independence of the NPS from external interference, ensuring that it remains professional, impartial, and capable of effectively delivering its constitutional mandate.”
