NAIROBI, Kenya- President William Ruto on Thursday presided over the 46th recruits pass-out parade at the Kenya Prisons Service Staff Training College in Ruiru, Kiambu County, where 3,862 officers graduated after completing nine months of rigorous training.
Addressing the new officers, the President said their role goes beyond the safe custody of prisoners, describing them as a vital pillar in Kenya’s national security architecture and criminal justice system.
“This auspicious occasion underscores the government’s firm commitment to strengthening and transforming our criminal justice system into one that upholds the rule of law, protects rights, and advances progressive reforms,” he said.
Salary Increment in Phases
Ruto announced that prison officers have already benefited from Phase I and Phase II of a salary review implemented in line with the Maraga Taskforce recommendations.
He said entry pay for a prison constable has increased by 36 per cent, while the maximum salary scale has grown by 24 per cent. Phase III of the salary increment will take effect from July 1, 2026.
“This is clear evidence of the government’s sustained resolve to improve the welfare and motivation of our correctional officers,” he said.
Passing Out Parade, Prisons Staff Training College, Ruiru. x.com/i/broadcasts/1…
28,000 Housing Units for Officers
In a major welfare boost, the President directed the State Department for Housing and Urban Development to construct 28,000 institutional housing units for the Kenya Prisons Service.
A portion of the houses will also support officers under the Probation and Aftercare Service. Phase one, representing about 30 per cent of the project, is already on course and will target selected correctional facilities.
Ruto said the move is part of the government’s commitment to ensuring officers live in dignified and secure homes.
Healthcare and SHA Registration
The President noted that all Kenya Prisons Service staff are now guaranteed access to healthcare through the Comprehensive Health Insurance Scheme under the Social Health Authority (SHA).
However, he raised concern that inmate registration under SHA stands at just over 56 per cent and directed the State Department for Correctional Services to ensure 100 per cent compliance within the shortest time possible.
He also confirmed the operationalisation of the Wanini Kireri Magereza Level IV Hospital at the training college in Ruiru, which will serve officers and the surrounding community.
Tree Planting and Food Security
Ruto commended the Prisons Service for planting more than 6.8 million trees in support of the national target of 15 billion trees by 2032, noting that national tree cover has risen to 12 per cent from below 10 per cent five years ago.
Under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda, he said seven maize-producing prison stations have achieved 85 per cent of their projected harvest, while rice production at Mwea Prison Farm stands at 60 per cent and vegetable production at 70 per cent.
“These gains underscore our steady progress toward food security and agricultural sustainability within the Service,” he said.
Digital Transformation Drive
The President further revealed that over 70 per cent of correctional facilities are now connected to the National Fibre Network under the Integrated Correctional Information Management System.
The system is expected to enhance real-time information sharing across criminal justice agencies, strengthen coordination, and boost transparency and accountability.
As he concluded, Ruto urged the new recruits to uphold integrity and maintain zero tolerance for malpractice.
“Embrace your solemn duty: uphold the law, safeguard society, and rehabilitate inmates with professionalism and integrity,” he told the graduating officers.
