Police reforms to deliver a modern and efficient force

The world is currently undergoing rapid transformations in all aspects of human life, largely driven by advancements in technology. These changes have resulted in economic, social and political dynamics that have profound effects on crime, public safety and security worldwide. As a result, security agencies are being compelled to reassess their approach to their official responsibilities and the scope of their work.

The National Police Service (NPS) is acutely aware of these transformations and recognises the need to adapt in order to effectively address the challenges that accompany them, with the primary goal of ensuring public safety and security.

It is crucial to understand that peace and security are fundamental elements in the development of societies, as citizens must be able to conduct their affairs freely and safely. The absence of peace, safety, and security hinders national development, underscoring the importance of the NPS collaborating with other stakeholders and the public to promote and safeguard these essential values.

The NPS has key responsibilities in the prevention and detection of crime, the maintenance of law and order, and the prosecution of offenders. The service is also dedicated to meeting and upholding global policing standards across all its operations.

With this in mind, the NPS is unwavering in its commitment to providing a professional and community-focused police service through partnerships with the public and a steadfast adherence to the rule of law, all in the pursuit of a safe and secure Kenya. Our focus is on establishing a foundation of trust and instilling a deep sense of security by fostering open lines of communication and collaboration between law enforcement officers and the community.

Local transformations

In order to effectively and efficiently serve amidst the global and local transformations taking place, the police service is undergoing a series of reforms aimed at safeguarding the lives and property, as well as the liberty and security, of all Kenyans in strict adherence to the rule of law. These reforms are essential in shaping a police service that is distinguished by its unwavering commitment to the core values of character, compassion, courage, integrity and dedication to both service and country. Our primary objective is to ensure accountability for police actions and the delivery of services.

The ongoing reforms are guided by the spirit and principle enshrined in Article 244 of the Constitution, which established the National Police Service as a professional, disciplined, transparent and accountable entity.

These reforms are geared towards enhancing the service’s capacity to provide transparent, effective, efficient and responsive police service in an ever-evolving world, with the ultimate goal of reducing crime and fostering a safe and secure society in addition to bolstering the rule of law, enhancing crime investigation systems, expanding criminal analysis capabilities, and improving police presence and response to security challenges, the reforms also aim to fortify mechanisms for the protection of children, other vulnerable groups, and the promotion and safeguarding of human rights.

The successful implementation of these reforms will have significant implications for the safety, security, and maintenance of law and order in Kenya, ultimately contributing to national development.

We are therefore dedicated to collaborating with stakeholders and the public to establish a modern police force that prioritises speed, efficiency, transparency, integrity and fairness in serving all citizens.

Mr Nyaga is the spokesperson of the National Police Service. [email protected]