The government has committed Ksh7.6 billion to enhance police capabilities and plans to allocate an additional Ksh29.4 billion over the next three years. This investment aims to equip the police with advanced gear, including armoured personnel carriers, mine-resistant vehicles, drones, gunship helicopters, minesweepers, and personal protection equipment. The initiative is designed to bolster operations such as Operation Maliza Uhalifu in the North Rift Valley and counter-terrorism efforts in northeastern Kenya and Lamu County.
National Police Service Gains Independence
In related developments, the National Police Service (NPS) has become an independent entity following the transfer of its budget from the Office of the President. This change empowers the Inspector General to act as the accounting officer, with the NPS receiving a substantial allocation of Ksh110 billion for the 2024/25 financial year. The move is part of broader reforms, including the establishment of the National Taskforce on Police Reforms, led by former Chief Justice David Maraga. The taskforce’s report, handed over to the President in November 2023, includes 271 recommendations for the Police, 210 for Prisons, and 117 for the National Youth Service (NYS).
Reform Implementation and Service Improvements
The first phase of implementing these reforms focuses on actions that do not require additional funding, such as revising service charters and developing new service standards. The Interior ministry is also engaging development partners to support some of the recommended projects and programmes. Internal Security PS Raymond Omollo highlighted the government’s commitment to eliminating discriminatory practices related to ethnicity or religion, including the vetting process previously required for national identity cards. President William Ruto emphasized that the new policy ensures equal treatment for all Kenyans.
Abolishment of Discriminatory Vetting Processes
As of May 2024, the government has abolished the discriminatory vetting process for national identity cards, which previously required additional documentation such as birth certificates of parents and grandparents. This process had hindered many individuals from obtaining their IDs. Additionally, the government has officially recognized the Pemba community, who have lived in Kenya’s coastal region for decades but were previously stateless. This recognition facilitates their access to essential services like healthcare, education, and identity documents.
Enhanced Collaboration Through Public Benefit Organizations Act
The Interior ministry has also introduced the Public Benefit Organizations Act, effective May 14, which aims to enhance collaboration and transparency for Public Benefit Organizations (PBOs). This new legal framework is expected to expedite the registration of PBOs, allowing them to mobilize resources and respond to emergencies more efficiently. The Act creates an enabling environment for PBOs to operate with greater effectiveness and introduces a regulatory framework that enhances transparency in their operations.
