A Nairobi traffic officer has received widespread praise from motorists and pedestrians who regularly encounter him while controlling traffic along Ngong Road and nearby junctions.
The officer has been commended for his hands-on approach to traffic management, particularly around Yaya Center, Prestige, Adams Arcade, Ole Dume and Riara Road.
Several motorists described him as dedicated to his duties, with some saying he regularly steps in to control traffic manually at busy junctions, including areas with traffic lights.
“When traffic along Gitanga, joining Ole Odume, is flowing well (and it can be really heavy at peak hours), just know he is around. Sometimes he comes to the Argwings/Ole Odume junction when it is too tight, and he somehow manages to clear the snarl-up. Whenever I see him, I just smile,” Maureen Mhando, a Kenyan, explained.
Motorists Share Experiences
Road users have also recounted instances in which the officer assisted motorists and pedestrians while on duty.
According to Adory Nyakaluoch, the traffic officer had once saved his daughter from a rogue Uber driver when coming from school.
“This same officer saved my 14-year-old daughter from a rogue Uber driver when she was coming from school. I am forever indebted to him,” Adory noted on September 20.
Some motorists said he helped drivers navigate difficult traffic situations, while others recalled him assisting people after road incidents and supporting motorists whose vehicles had developed problems.
Others described him as attentive while directing traffic, with some noting that he remains focused on his duties rather than using his phone while working.
Several motorists also emphasized that the officer does not accept bribes.
Also Read: Motorists Warned Of 35-Day Traffic Disruption Along Mombasa Road
Calls for Recognition for the Nairobi Traffic Officer
The praise has prompted calls for the National Police Service to recognize the officer.
Some motorists suggested that he should be promoted or receive better remuneration in recognition of his work.
Others, however, expressed concern that a promotion could transfer him away from traffic duties where they say his services are particularly visible.
The Nairobi officer has been identified by different names in public comments, including Mugendi, Faite, Baite and Alonso Mugendi.
Also Read: Govt Names Major Roads at Risk of Traffic Disruptions Ahead of El Niño Rains
How Traffic Police Officers Are Promoted in Kenya
Traffic police officers in Kenya are promoted under the broader promotion framework of the National Police Service.
The government considers an officer’s performance, qualifications, discipline, length of service, training, and suitability for the next rank during promotions.
Additionally, officers may also be required to complete relevant promotion courses and police law examinations, depending on the rank and applicable requirements.
The National Police Service Commission (NPSC) oversees and conducts promotional interviews.
Promotions and Transfers Committee coordinates recommendations involving promotions and transfers of uniformed and civilian personnel within the National Police Service.
Within the Kenya Police Service, personnel functions include managing promotions and implementing approved personnel decisions.
Police ranks progress through different levels, including Constable, Corporal, Sergeant, Senior Sergeant, Inspector, and Chief Inspector, among others.
Promotion and deployment are separate personnel decisions, as an officer can be promoted while the National Police Service determines where he will subsequently be deployed.
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I live near Yaya centre. I see the officer in the morning, lunch time and evening every day.
He is a wonder officer. However, he is not alone. There are three officers there who work very diligently. One is on duty and serving while sick and taking medicine. While the third man is also very active.
The base Commander is setting the tone at the top. The good work here is a testament the there are diligent officers in our police service.