The Inspector General (IG) of Police has emphasized a transformative agenda for the police service and outlined the core strategies aimed at elevating police operations, enhancing service delivery, and fostering stronger ties with members of the public.
Speaking Friday during the closing of National Police Service, County Commanders’ Strategic Leadership Course held at Police Leadership Academy, Ngong, Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja highlighted the critical role of training in the transformation journey.
“We are committed to ensuring our police stations become centers of excellence for operations and public service,” he said, noting that the journey demands a collective effort, continuous training, and a shared vision among all officers.
The IG underscored several initiatives that are currently underway, including a strategic training programme where senior officers, including county police commanders, are at the forefront of efforts to revamp the police force.
They are tasked with supervising divisions and ensuring the implementation of best practices across stations.
Additionally, the IG announced the rollout of a digitalization of police station systems under digital transformation, an initiative that will enable citizens to report incidents from the comfort of their homes using smartphones. The system enhances efficiency by assigning cases through a centralized dashboard, reducing bureaucracy and fostering accountability.
“Recognising the importance of officers’ well-being, the police service has prioritised mental health programmes that support mental health issues through collaborations with various stakeholders to ensure officers are psychologically fit and serve effectively,” he stated.
Kanja noted an improvement in officers’ welfare, stating that plans to provide affordable housing within police stations and divisions are at advanced stages to benefit the police officers, adding that when officers have adequate housing and are well taken care of, they can better serve the public.
“By leveraging innovation, we aim to eliminate inefficiencies and build trust between the police and the public,” he stated, expressing a firm commitment to rooting out corruption through the integration of technology and promising reforms that prioritise professionalism and accountability.
He affirmed that a strategic plan launched recently provides a clear roadmap for achieving these goals since their vision is to transform the police service into a model of excellence that the public can depend on.
The IG extended felicitations for the holiday season to the officers and their families as he acknowledges all the instructors and officers for their dedication and hard work adding that through collaboration, they will achieve the transformative vision.”
Director of the Directorate of Criminal Investigations Amin Mohamed noted that the five-week programme is designed to enhance the leadership and operational skills of officers within the National Police Service.
He commended their perseverance throughout the training and acknowledged instructors for their commitment to sharing valuable knowledge and expertise.
“I sincerely congratulate each and every graduate for the outstanding work you have accomplished in the field and during this programme,” he said, as he extended gratitude to the instructors.
He urged graduates to apply the lessons learnt in their respective commands, emphasising the importance of adapting to an ever-changing environment.
“I believe that now you are going back to your respective commands, the five-week stay here has enriched your policing skills and command skills. As you return to your commandos, make use of whatever you have learned and a shared experience as you collaborate,” he said.
Amin stated that a strong focus was placed on professionalism and integrity hence commanders are expected to uphold the highest ethical standards, cautioning that once integrity is lost, it cannot be redeemed.
By reflecting on the past misconduct within the service, he stressed that professionalism is crucial for maintaining the National Police Services reputation.
By Sharon Atieno
