[REVISION HISTORY]

Kenya security sector reforms and personnel updates

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2026-08-29 15:07 UTC → 2026-08-31 17:57 UTC · added ~~removed~~

President William Ruto has initiated several reforms regarding security personnel and services in Kenya. In early August, the President issued directives to private security firms to comply with a 15 percent minimum-wage increase, mandated the use of the term “private security officers” instead of colonial-era titles, and instructed firms to ensure statutory deductions are submitted. By late August, focus shifted toward the National Police Service. During a graduation parade for over 6,000 recruits at the National Police College in Kiganjo, President Ruto unveiled new uniforms, replacing the navy-blue design introduced in 2018 following feedback regarding its suitability. He also addressed officer welfare, noting that a three-phase salary review increased the entry-level basic pay for constables from KSh 21,640 to KSh 29,360. He indicated ongoing collaboration with the Salaries and Remuneration Commission to ensure pay reflects the risks faced by officers. Addressing political stability ahead of the 2027 General Election, Ruto directed the National Police Service to identify and prosecute individuals who finance, organize, or incite political violence, warning that hired gangs and “private militias” will not be tolerated. Additionally, the administration launched a $7 million (Ksh 930 million) modernization project for police training facilities at the Kiganjo campus. Supported by the United States and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), the initiative ~~includes the groundbreaking of the Chief Physical Training Instructor Grounds.~~ aims to strengthen institutional capacity and improve law enforcement responses to complex security threats. US Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Susan M. Burns noted the project aims to enhance professionalism to address threats such as terrorism, human trafficking, and wildlife trafficking.

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