Commissioner Evelyn Mbugua Emerges as the Steady Hand Behind the Kenya Police Service’s Mental Health Revolution
In a profession defined by sirens, split-second decisions and high-stakes operations, strength is often measured in tactical wins. But this week, the National Police Service (NPS) turned the spotlight inward — honoring the woman safeguarding the emotional and psychological resilience of those who protect the nation.
As part of its #WCW tribute, the NPS saluted Commissioner of Police Evelyn Mbugua, OGW, the trailblazing Head of the Counselling and Psychosocial Support Directorate, describing her as “the anchor” in a force that frequently meets the storm head-on.
And for good reason.
Behind every high-pressure deployment, traumatic crime scene, or national emergency response is an invisible battle — the mental toll on officers. Commissioner Mbugua has positioned herself at the frontline of that often-overlooked war.
Colleagues describe her as possessing a rare and effortless ability to de-escalate tension — not on the streets, but within the ranks. In moments of crisis, her calm leadership ensures that the emotional well-being of officers is not sacrificed in the line of duty.
Her work protects those who protect Kenya.
Commissioner Mbugua’s credentials underscore her mission. She holds:
A Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology
A Master’s Degree in Leadership and Security Management
A Master of Science in Organisational Development
A foundational background in Psychology and Community Development
This formidable academic portfolio reflects a deliberate investment in mastering the human side of policing — an area increasingly recognized as critical to effective law enforcement.
In modern policing, resilience is not optional. It is strategic.
As Head of the Counselling and Psychosocial Support Directorate, Commissioner Mbugua is not merely offering support — she is shaping policy and national strategy.
Her leadership drives initiatives in:
Mental health advocacy within the police service
Psycho-social support systems
Stress and trauma management
Grief counselling for officers and families
At a time when global conversations around police wellness and burnout are intensifying, Kenya’s Police Service is building institutional resilience from within — and Commissioner Mbugua is at the helm.
Beyond policy, she is investing in sustainability. Commissioner Mbugua mentors and trains the next generation of Police Psychologists and Counsellors, ensuring that psychosocial support remains embedded in the service’s DNA.
Her approach strengthens institutional structures, safeguards officer welfare, and reinforces operational effectiveness. After all, a mentally resilient force is a more disciplined, responsive and community-oriented one.
The National Police Service’s tribute signals a broader shift in how strength is defined within law enforcement. It is no longer just about physical readiness or tactical precision — it is about emotional intelligence, psychological preparedness, and compassionate leadership.
In honoring Commissioner Evelyn Mbugua, OGW, the NPS is sending a clear message: caring for the mental health of officers is not a side mission — it is central to national security.
And in the eye of the storm, Kenya’s police have found their anchor.
