Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja
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Next year, the National Police Service (NPS) of Kenya will launch a comprehensive digital transformation initiative aimed at enhancing service delivery and public engagement.
Announced by Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja during a graduation ceremony for 80 county commanders at the Ngong Police Academy on Saturday, this initiative seeks to modernize policing through the implementation of digital platforms. Key features will include an updated Occurrence Book (OB) that allows citizens to file complaints online and track their resolution, thereby improving accountability and streamlining police processes.
Kanja emphasizes the introduction of digital police stations, enabling citizens to report crimes directly from their mobile devices, which is expected to reduce the necessity for in-person visits to physical stations. This technological integration is intended to bolster professionalism within the police force and transform police stations into exemplary centres of excellence.
The ceremony was attended by representatives from various branches of the police, including the Administration Police Service (APS), Kenya Police Service (KPS), and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI). In his address, Kanja noted the importance of operational efficiency and strategic leadership, encouraging the new graduates to focus on their mental wellness as a critical component of effective performance and team support.
In further efforts to modernize the force, Kanja has announced collaborative discussions with the State Department of Housing aimed at enhancing living accommodations for police officers, particularly in stations with ample land available for development. DCI Director Mohamed Amin, present at the event, reiterated the necessity of maintaining high standards of integrity and professionalism among officers, emphasizing that continuous learning and skill-sharing are essential for effective public service.
He also highlighted the need for improved communication among commanders to enhance intelligence sharing. Additionally, Kanja has introduced plans to establish an office dedicated to supporting officers with disabilities, addressing their welfare and mental health needs. This initiative aligns with the NPS Strategic Plan (2023–2027), which aims to cultivate an inclusive and supportive workplace environment.
Funding amounting to Sh 14 million has been secured from the Kenya Reinsurance Corporation for the acquisition of assistive devices and equipment for disabled officers. Deputy Inspector General Gilbert Masengeli stresses the importance of supporting officers with disabilities, asserting that all officers deserve to lead dignified lives. DIG Eliud Lagat further reaffirms the commitment of the NPS to inclusivity, recognizing the contributions of officers injured in the line of duty.