Kenya to Resume Police Recruitment in September After Three-Year Freeze

NAIROBI, Kenya – The National Police Service will recruit new officers in September, ending a three-year pause brought about by financial constraints. Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja said the exercise will address a shortfall of about 5,000 officers and move the country closer to the United Nations’ recommended police-to-population ratio of 1:450.

Speaking on Sunday, Kanja noted that the last recruitment was held in 2022, with graduates joining the service in 2023. Since then, the ranks have been depleted by resignations, dismissals, retirements, and deaths, leaving officers stretched thin. He warned that the shortage has hampered the fight against crimes ranging from cattle rustling and banditry to terrorism, human trafficking, drug smuggling, and violent robberies.

The National Police Service Commission has developed a secure digital recruitment platform intended to seal corruption loopholes. However, Kanja said the system will not be used this year, explaining that it must first undergo public participation and other procedures before being rolled out.

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has promised significant changes to make the recruitment fair and transparent. These include shifting medical examinations to police training schools to reduce the risk of bribery, requiring all activities to conclude by 4:00 pm, posting the names of successful applicants at each recruitment centre, and having independent observers drawn from religious groups, civil society, and local communities present at every stage.

Murkomen added that the exercise will be spread over several days instead of being concluded in one day. He said this will give applicants a fair chance while reducing opportunities for corruption. Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo encouraged young Kenyans to prepare for the opportunity once official dates are announced, describing it as a chance to serve the country and strengthen national security.

If it goes ahead as planned, the September recruitment will be the largest intake in three years and is expected to significantly boost the country’s overstretched police force.