The government has implemented 50 per cent of the recommendations proposed by the Maraga-led taskforce on security reforms, Internal Security Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo has said.
The reforms target the National Police Service, Kenya Prisons Service, and the National Youth Service. According to Omollo, the process is on track and already showing results.
“As the chair of the National Steering Committee, I wish to inform the country that we are on track with these reforms,” he said.
He noted that another 30 per cent of the recommendations are being implemented. These include improvements in capacity, welfare, salaries, recruitment, and infrastructure.
“The reform journey we embarked on is not just about systems and structures; it is about restoring trust, dignity, and professionalism in our security institutions,” Omollo added.
He attributed the progress to support from stakeholders and emphasised that the reform agenda focuses on accountability, operational efficiency, and officer welfare.
However, the report presented during the meeting showed that some reforms were still lagging. These include welfare-related changes, oversight efforts, and anti-corruption measures.
The PS said modernisation reforms in the prison service had experienced major delays, with 70 per cent yet to start. He cited funding shortfalls, bureaucracy, policy delays, and low stakeholder engagement as key obstacles.
To address housing concerns, Omollo said the State Department of Housing is constructing 10,000 units for Kenya Prisons Service officers.
He called for more funding from the National Treasury and urged collaboration among security bodies, policymakers, and partners.
“The success of these reforms depends on the collective will of all stakeholders. We must move beyond reports and recommendations and ensure that the intended changes are felt at the grassroots,” he said.
Dr. Omollo also pledged continued public sensitisation and stakeholder engagement to drive the reforms forward.
He said the government remains committed to transparency, accountability, and professionalism in the security sector.
Present at the meeting were Public Service PS Dr. Jane Imbunya, Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, Commissioner General of Prisons Patrick Aranduh, and NYS Commandant General James Tembur.
