# Kenya police uniform procurement controversy

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/kenya-police-uniform-procurement-controversy
> Updated: 2026-08-31T05:50:37.000Z. Sources: 3. Developments: 2.

The Kenya National Police Service is transitioning from the dark-blue uniforms used since 2018 to a new design consisting of light-blue shirts or blouses paired with deep navy-blue trousers. President William Ruto officially unveiled the new General Duty uniform during a ceremony for recruits at the National Police Training College in Kiganjo.

The transition has faced scrutiny regarding the procurement process and the transparency of the multi-billion shilling tender. While Nalitex has been identified as a contracted supplier, critics have questioned the decision to outsource the production. Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i argued that the government should have utilized the manufacturing capacity of public institutions, such as the National Youth Service, to reduce costs and support domestic industry rather than relying on external suppliers.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-31: Kenya police introduce new uniforms amid procurement criticism

Kenya's Police Inspector-General has debuted new uniforms intended to boost professionalism, amid criticism from former Interior CS Fred Matiang’i regarding the government's decision to outsource production.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/kenya-police-introduce-new-uniforms-amid-procurement-criticism

### 2026-08-28: Kenya police uniform transition sparks procurement scrutiny

Kenya is transitioning to new police uniforms featuring light-blue shirts and navy trousers, amid scrutiny over procurement costs and the transparency of the multi-billion shilling tender process.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/kenya-police-uniform-transition-sparks-procurement-scrutiny

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Cite as: Kenya police uniform procurement controversy. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/kenya-police-uniform-procurement-controversy