Kenya is set to launch a major recruitment drive targeting 10,000 new police constables between October 3 and 9, 2025, in what will be the first nationwide hiring exercise in four years.

The move aims to plug a growing shortage of officers and strengthen the country’s security services.

On Monday, the National Police Service Commission (NPSC) convened a joint briefing for recruitment panels at the Administration Police College, Embakasi “A” Campus, outlining expectations and responsibilities ahead of the week-long exercise.

Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja emphasized the Service’s commitment to a credible, fair, and transparent process, cautioning panelists against corrupt practices that could compromise public trust.

“Let us be fair and above board in the whole exercise. Be fair to the recruits,” he said, adding that the recruitment would be closely monitored by oversight agencies to meet national standards.

NPSC Chairperson Dr. Amani Komora underscored the importance of merit-based selection, pledging the commission’s full support to ensure transparency and accountability. Vice Chairperson Prof. Collette Suda echoed this sentiment, reminding panelists that Kenyans hold high expectations for integrity in the exercise.

NPSC Chief Executive Officer Peter Leley also issued a stern warning against malpractice, stressing that any officer found culpable would face personal responsibility.

The briefing, attended by senior police chiefs including Deputy Inspector Generals Eliud Lagat (Kenya Police Service), Gilbert Masengeli (Administration Police Service), and DCI Director Mohamed Amin, addressed potential challenges and clarified roles to guarantee efficiency and fairness.

This recruitment comes amid a severe shortage of police officers, attributed to the four-year hiatus in hiring. The process had been delayed by disagreements within the commission and Parliament over selection criteria, but was resolved following intervention by top political leaders.

The nationwide drive will see panels across the country vet thousands of applicants, with successful candidates expected to bolster the Service’s capacity and enhance public security.