By Cyrus Ombati and PPS

Nairobi, Kenya: President Uhuru Kenyatta has directed that Sh4 billion be set aside annually starting this financial year for the purchase of equipment to boost security in the country.

The President said he is concerned with rising incidences of crime in the country and directed that it be contained.

He spoke Tuesday at his Harambee House office where he was briefed on the security situation in the country by Inspector-General of Police David Kimaiyo.

The President further ordered the formation of a special team comprising officials from Treasury, Police and the Office of the President to identify the equipment required and to manage the procurement of the same.

Kimaiyo had to leave a full meeting of the National Police Service Commission that was in session to meet the President. The commission was meeting to discuss the security situation in the country and various proposed reforms.

Uhuru said modalities are being worked out to increase the number of police officers in the country. His deputy William Ruto had earlier on Monday indicated 10,000 recruits will be admitted to police colleges in the next recruitment.

Kimaiyo had earlier on last month said the department needs at least Sh150 billion to be able to meet the proposed police reforms and ensure their operations are smooth.

President Uhuru, at the same time, regretted the rising incidences of road accidents, especially those involving motorcycle riders.

He ordered the traffic police to ensure traffic regulations and laws are observed at all times.

The Head of State also directed the office of the Head of Public Service and Secretary to the Cabinet to work closely with Ministry of Transport to ensure the boda boda sector is well regulated and managed, particularly with respect to insurance and training of riders.

On Monday night alone, 12 people were killed in separate road accidents in the country. Four of the victims were riding on a boda boda in Kitui town when the accident happened.

At a separate meeting, Uhuru was briefed on the status of the budget by the Treasury team where he directed the team to work out a program to ensure Kenya’s economy is the most competitive in the region and beyond.

The President also stressed the need to explore how the country can start generating energy from coal, saying it will be affordable and reliable hence bring down the cost of doing business in the country.

During the briefing, Uhuru was assured by the Treasury team that money for the laptop program, Youth and Women Enterprise Funds, free maternity and putting one million acres under irrigation is factored in the budget.