The government has stepped up reforms in the security sector, with changes touching on recruitment, salaries and welfare of officers.
In a post shared on his X account, Internal Security Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo said the ongoing reforms in the National Police Service, Kenya Prisons Service and National Youth Service are meant to improve how the institutions work and also support officers.
According to Omollo, a total of 13,860 officers have so far been recruited. This includes 10,000 police constables and 3,860 prison constables.
The new recruits are expected to help reduce the workload of officers and increase security presence in the country, Omollo explained.
The government also announced what it called the “biggest salary review” in the history of disciplined services. This is expected to increase officers’ salaries by up to 40 per cent within two years. So far, two phases of the review have been implemented. The last phase is expected to take place in July next year.
Omollo also cited welfare reforms, saying the government has improved risk and hardship allowances for officers. The government is also in the process of delivering housing for officers. So far, about 5,000 housing units have been delivered out of a target of 28,000 units.
The reforms also include amendments to laws aimed at improving accountability and professionalism in the services. The government is also investing in modern equipment, better communication systems, and digitization.
“These measures are building a more efficient, well-equipped and people-centered security service,” Omollo said.
The reforms come as part of broader efforts to improve working conditions for officers while strengthening security operations across the country.
