NAIROBI, Kenya — General-duty officers in the Kenya Police Service (KPS) are set to begin wearing new uniforms next week as the National Police Service (NPS) moves to implement recommendations from a public participation exercise conducted among officers in 2023.
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja said the new uniform will be unveiled by President William Ruto during the passing-out parade of police recruits at the Kenya Police Training College in Kiganjo on Friday 21, August 2026.
The graduating officers will be the first to wear the new attire before it is progressively introduced to other general-duty officers.
Kanja said the change follows feedback from police officers who rejected the current navy-blue uniform during the 2023 public participation exercise.
“We have been using the blue, the deep blue one, so we have just reverted back to the one that was agreed upon. I must note that on Monday, I will also be in that one,” Kanja said.
The Inspector General said the new uniform had been approved previously and was being reintroduced as part of efforts to improve the working environment and morale of officers.
“In the next few coming weeks, we should see the new uniform that was approved sometimes back and I think this is also going to be a force multiplier,” he said.
New uniform to be rolled out gradually
Kanja indicated that the new attire would initially be worn by general-duty officers, with a gradual rollout across the Kenya Police Service.
Officers serving in the Administration Police Service and the General Service Unit (GSU) will retain their existing uniforms.
The changes are expected to provide a distinct identity for general-duty officers while addressing concerns raised during consultations with members of the service.
Kanja said improved morale among officers could ultimately contribute to better service delivery.
The announcement comes as the NPS prepares to graduate more than 6,000 police constables who have completed their training at Kiganjo.
Kanja inspected preparations for the passing-out parade ahead of the ceremony, which will mark the recruits’ transition into active service.
Kanja warns recruits ahead of 2027 election
The Inspector General also cautioned the graduating officers against engaging in criminal activities or allowing themselves to be used by individuals pursuing personal or political interests.
His warning comes as Kenya approaches the 2027 General Election, when police officers are expected to play a critical role in maintaining security and protecting public order.
Kanja urged the recruits to uphold professionalism and remain committed to their constitutional responsibilities.
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The NPS has previously emphasised the importance of impartiality, discipline and respect for the law in policing, particularly during politically sensitive periods.
The new officers will therefore enter the service at a time when the country is already beginning to experience heightened political activity ahead of the next election.
Kanja said the recruits must understand that their responsibility is to serve the public and protect the law rather than advance the interests of individuals.
The unveiling of the new uniform at Kiganjo is expected to mark the beginning of a wider transition for general-duty police officers across the country.
