Government increases Police Constables’ salary to Ksh57,700 from Ksh38,975
The Kenyan government has confirmed that the final phase of a multi-year salary review for officers in the National Police Service (NPS), Kenya Prisons Service (KPS), and National Youth Service (NYS) will take effect on July 1, 2026.
Announced by the Ministry of Interior on March 3, 2026, following a National Steering Committee meeting chaired by Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo, this move is directed by President William Ruto. It represents the culmination of phased increases—the highest cumulative pay adjustments for these services since independence—aimed at enhancing welfare, improving terms of service, boosting staff development, and uplifting morale, particularly in line with recommendations from the David Maraga Taskforce for prison officers.
Lower-ranking officers stand to benefit most significantly from the adjustments. A constable—the lowest rank in the NPS—will now earn a maximum basic salary of Ksh 57,700, up from Ksh 38,975, marking a 48% increase. Newly graduated constables from police training colleges will start at Ksh 29,296, previously Ksh 20,390, reflecting a 44% rise. A similar salary cap applies to equivalent roles in the KPS. At the top end, the highest-serving police officer will receive a maximum monthly basic pay of Ksh 345,850, an increase from Ksh 289,090 (a 20% rise). For KPS senior officers, pay ranges from Ksh 301,548 to Ksh 584,903, while NYS personnel in the lowest cadre will earn between Ksh 26,222 (minimum) and Ksh 37,912 (maximum), up from Ksh 19,800 to Ksh 32,315.
This phased rollout, with earlier stages implemented from July 1, 2024, underscores the government's ongoing commitment to reforming and motivating security and correctional personnel amid efforts to strengthen national institutions. The announcement highlights sustained progress in addressing long-standing welfare concerns, ensuring officers are better equipped to serve effectively.
