Kenya Records 55% Progress in Security Sector Reforms, PS Omollo Says
The Principal Secretary for Ministry of Interior and National Administration, Raymond Omollo, has announced that the government has achieved significant milestones in the ongoing security sector reforms, with implementation now at 55 percent.
Speaking during a press briefing, Omollo said the reforms span across the National Police Service, Kenya Prisons Service, and National Youth Service, involving over 500 reform measures.
He noted that more than half of the reforms are within the police service, while the rest are shared between the prisons and youth service sectors.
Omollo highlighted key achievements, including the implementation of administrative reforms that did not require legislative changes, as well as progress in improving officers’ welfare. He said the government has already rolled out the second phase of salary increments, with plans underway to implement the final phase, which will raise officers’ pay by up to 40 percent.
“This has significantly boosted morale, especially among junior officers,” he said.
The PS also cited ongoing recruitment efforts aimed at addressing personnel shortages caused by retirements and attrition. At least 10,000 police constables are currently undergoing training, while over 3,800 prison officers recently graduated.
“So far, 13,860 new officers have been recruited; 10,000 Police Constables and 3,860 Prison Constables, helping to address past gaps, reduce workload and enhance security presence across the country,” he said.
On housing, Omollo revealed that the government is working to address a housing deficit of more than 50 percent across the services. Over 5,000 housing units are currently under construction nationwide to improve officers’ living conditions.
He further pointed to progress in modernizing security infrastructure, including investments in equipment for the police service, as well as the integration of technology such as CCTV systems and body cameras to enhance crime detection and accountability.
In addition, Omollo said several legislative reforms are underway, with multiple bills at the public participation stage or awaiting tabling in Parliament. These include proposals to strengthen forensic capabilities and improve evidence management in court processes.
The PS emphasized the importance of sustained funding, noting that the reforms require substantial resources. He commended both the Executive and Parliament for supporting the initiatives and called for continued backing to fully implement the remaining reforms.
“We are focused on completing the remaining phase within the next year to ensure improved service delivery and enhanced public safety,” Omollo said.
Additionally, the Government has implemented the most extensive salary review in the history of the disciplined services, with increases of up to 40% over two years. Phases I and II are complete, with the final phase due in July 2026, significantly improving earnings and making the services more competitive.
