The Nairobi Metropolitan Police Unit (NMPU) will be introduced gradually, according to Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja. The unit, formally established last month through the amended National Police Service Standing Orders (Chapter Seven, 2026), aims to improve security management in Nairobi and parts of Kajiado, Kiambu, and Machakos counties.

The phased operationalisation will begin with the appointment of a Commander and Deputy Commander who will oversee the unit's structure, deployment, and training. About 2,500 officers are expected to undergo specialised training before deployment across various sub-units, including diplomatic, public safety, traffic, investigations, and patrol divisions.

Key features of the NMPU include:

  • Collaboration with Nairobi City County Inspectorate through a new enforcement sub-unit incorporating selected and trained civilian personnel.
  • Officers, including seconded county askaris, will wear a uniform similar to police but with distinct name tags and insignia.
  • Officers will be transferable nationwide but are encouraged to serve three to four years within the unit to build community trust and operational understanding.

IG Kanja highlighted that the creation of the NMPU responds to challenges posed by rapid urbanisation, population growth, and increased economic activities demanding modernised security approaches. The unit is modelled on international metropolitan policing frameworks but tailored to Nairobi's unique environment.

Further reforms within the National Police Service have clarified roles and reduced duplication among specialised units. For example, the Government Vehicle Check Unit is now a standing unit, and the Quick Reaction Force has been formally integrated under the Kenya Police Service.

Deputy DCI John Onyango cautioned commanders against creating parallel command structures, urging adherence to the approved framework to ensure efficient service delivery.

IG Kanja encouraged officers to embrace these changes, emphasizing that while reforms may bring uncertainty, they offer opportunities for sustainable and effective policing.