The statement was made on Friday, 18 September 2026, during the 50th General Service Unit recruits’ pass-out parade at the National Police College in Embakasi, Nairobi.
The programme is designed to equip the National Police Service with modern tools, technology and operational capabilities. It forms part of broader efforts to improve the ability of security agencies to protect citizens and maintain national security.Ruto stated that the funds already invested cover protective equipment, mobility assets, air support, secure communications, surveillance systems, command-and-control platforms and digital tools.
He also confirmed that police training is being strengthened in counter-terrorism, intelligence-led operations, public order management, forensics, cybercrime, emergency response and the lawful use of force. The government is simultaneously addressing police housing through the Affordable Housing Programme. A total of 28,000 housing units are planned for officers. Of these, 870 have been completed, about 12,000 are under construction, more than 1,500 are at the procurement stage, and 15,000 are scheduled for future development.
The announcement came as new GSU officers completed their training and formally joined the National Police Service. Officials present at the parade noted that the modernisation drive is intended to support officers facing threats such as terrorism, banditry and violent crime.The Sh21 billion already spent represents a significant portion of the overall Sh30 billion Police Modernisation Programme. Authorities say the remaining funds will continue to be directed toward equipment, technology and capacity-building initiatives for the National Police Service.