Female Kenya Police Officers Directed to Do Away with Fancy Hairstyles

Kenya female police officers have been ordered to do away with flashy hairstyles to comply with the Kenya police dress code.

In a circular signed by Deputy Inspector-General of Police Edward Mbugua and dated December 20, 2019, female police officers have been directed to get rid of overdone flashy hairstyles by January 1, 2020. "There is dire need to recognise that the police uniform is a symbol of authority and should be accorded the respect it deserves. As from January 1, 2020 these overdone hairstyles will not be accepted,"Mbugua said.

Mbugua said some exaggerated weaves, styles, and over-colored hairdos are a violation of police dress code as they have made it hard for the officers to put on peaked or berets, saying "I observed with dismay exaggerated weaves and styles and over-coloured hairdos. Some officers could not even put on peaked caps or berets.”

The circular also reminds Muslim police officers that a thin black scarf is acceptable dress code, directing them to do away with colored hijabs.

Mbugua has directed all regional commanders to ensure the dress code is strictly adhered to. "There is dire need to recognise that the police uniform is a symbol of authority and should be accorded the respect it deserves. As from January 1, 2020 these overdone hairstyles will not be accepted, Mbugua added.