The Kenya Police Service has intensified leadership training as part of efforts to strengthen command structures and ensure continuity in policing across the country. While officiating the graduation of more than 120 senior officers on Tuesday, Deputy Inspector General of Police in charge of the Kenya Police Service, Eliud Lagat, underscored the importance of structured training in building effective police leadership.
The ceremony was held at the National Police Service College – Kiganjo main campus in Kiganjo, Nyeri County. The officers completed a 25-week Higher Training Course (HTC) designed to prepare senior officers for leadership roles at sub-county level. They previously held the rank of Chief Inspector of Police and are now set to assume duties as Assistant Superintendents of Police. Speaking during the ceremony, Mr Lagat commended the officers for their discipline and commitment throughout the demanding course.
He said the training equips officers with the leadership and management skills needed to respond to emerging security challenges, as well as issues affecting police officers, including mental health and welfare. The DIG noted that, “the true test of this knowledge does not lie in your manuals or certificates. It lies in the moments yet to come, the difficult decisions at midnight, the tense community meeting, and the quiet acts of courage that go unseen.”
He urged the officers to uphold accountability, professionalism and fairness in the execution of their duties, adding that public confidence in the police depends on integrity, humility and respectful engagement with communities. Mr Lagat further said the Service would continue investing in training to ensure effective leadership at all levels.
With the completion of the course, another group of senior officers is expected to report to the college to begin the programme. In addition, officers of various ranks are currently undertaking promotional and specialised courses at different police training institutions. The leadership training forms part of wider preparations by the Kenya Police Service to maintain operational readiness as the Service continues to recruit and train new officers ahead of the General Elections scheduled for August 2027.
