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ADVERTPresident William Ruto is set to unveil Kenya’s new police uniform on Friday as the National Police Service (NPS) moves to restore an outfit that officers and members of the public had previously endorsed.
The new uniform will be introduced during the passing-out parade of more than 4,000 police constables who have completed their training at the Kenya Police College in Kiganjo, Nyeri County.
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja said the change follows recommendations from a 2023 public participation exercise in which police officers rejected the current deep navy-blue uniform.
According to Kanja, the NPS has decided to return to the design that had earlier been approved, with the new outfit expected to be worn initially by the graduating officers before being progressively rolled out to other General Duty officers.
“We have been using the blue, the deep blue one, so we have just reverted back to the one that was agreed upon,” Kanja said, signalling the end of the current uniform’s tenure for General Duty officers.
ADVERTThe IG added that he would also appear in the new uniform as the service begins the transition, describing the change as more than a cosmetic makeover.
“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.
The new attire is expected to be introduced gradually across the General Duty section of the Kenya Police Service, while officers serving in the Administration Police Service and the General Service Unit will retain their existing uniforms for now.
The change comes as the police service seeks to improve officers’ morale and strengthen public confidence in the institution. Kanja suggested that giving officers an outfit that reflects their preferences and operational needs could contribute to better service delivery.
The unveiling also comes at a politically sensitive moment, with Kenya heading towards the 2027 General Election and the police expected to play a critical role in maintaining law and order.
During his inspection of preparations for Friday’s graduation ceremony, Kanja issued a stern warning to the new officers against engaging in criminal activities or allowing themselves to be used by politicians and other individuals.
He urged the recruits to remain professional, disciplined and loyal to the Constitution, warning them against being drawn into political interests as the country enters an increasingly competitive electoral period.
The new uniform therefore arrives with expectations that extend beyond appearance. For the NPS, it is being presented as part of a broader effort to boost police morale, professionalism and public service.
From Friday, thousands of newly trained officers will become the first to formally wear the new-look uniform, marking a significant shift in the appearance of Kenya’s General Duty police officers.
