President William Ruto has announced a salary increase for prison officers, stating that the changes will take effect in June 2026.
Speaking during the passing parade at the Prisons Staff Training College in Ruiru, Ruto announced that Phase 3 of salary increments for prison officers will take effect in June 2026, bringing their pay in line with that of other public service workers.
“I have said that in June this year, we will implement Phase 3 of the salary increase for prison officers, just like other public service workers,” he said.
Additionally, Ruto acknowledged that some officers currently live in substandard housing and confirmed that funds have been allocated to construct new homes.
He said that the first 500 housing units are scheduled to begin construction this year, and in the next four years, the government will have constructed twenty-eight thousand houses to ensure all officers stay in proper houses.
“I also understand that some officers live in poor housing, and we have allocated funds to build homes, with the first 500 units starting this year,” Ruto said.
The Prison Officers’ Passing Out Parade
Kenya Prison recruits at the Prisons Staff Training College in Ruiru held their recruit pass-out parade on Thursday, February 26, 2026, presided over by President William Ruto.
The recruits, who joined the college in May last year under the 2025–2026 programme, have undergone months of intensive preparation designed to equip them for the complex and evolving realities of modern correctional work.
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In addition, the comprehensive training programme combines classroom instruction with practical field experience.
The curriculum covers a broad range of subjects, including legal and security procedures, conflict resolution, prisoner rehabilitation and financial literacy.
The pass-out parade officially marks the recruits’ transition into active service, where they are expected to support reforms aimed at strengthening professionalism and efficiency within the prison service.
Rehearsals Of the Parade
The recruits held rehearsals on February 20. This was marked by precision drills and the oath of office, and was attended by Commissioner General Patrick Arandu, who commended the trainees for their discipline and commitment throughout the rigorous training programme.
Arandu, who spoke during the event, lauded the cohort for maintaining high standards of conduct and professionalism.
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He expressed his satisfaction with the level of discipline, coordination and confidence demonstrated here today.
He noted that the training goes beyond physical drills and routine prison procedures, emphasising that it is deliberately structured to prepare officers for emerging challenges within the correctional system.
The work of a correctional officer today, he said, demands not only physical fitness but also a deep understanding of legal and ethical responsibilities.
“You must be prepared to serve with integrity, fairness and humanity,” Arandu added.
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