Kenya: Corruption, lack of scheme of service, slow adoption of ICT and poor record of internal accountability are among the challenges that police face, the 2013-2017 National Police Service Strategic Plan launched by Inspector General of Police David Kimaiyo yesterday has revealed.

The plan also shows that inadequate human resource capacity, limited logistical capacity and seeming conflict between regular police and their Administration Police counterparts are some of the biggest weaknesses the service has.

 It also brings to the fore a number of issues that it said are affecting service delivery. However, the plan fails to mention the cost of implementation, as should be the case.

The booklet cites stagnation in one rank, lack of clarity between the National Police Service and National Police Service Commission functions, inadequate budgetary allocation and inadequate infrastructure as some of the issues affecting service delivery.

 The police have often been accused of not doing enough to combat crime and terrorism but the plan explains why. With weak performance management systems, poor relations with institutions of higher learning, bureaucracy in procurement, poor terms and conditions of service and inadequate and obsolete equipment, officers have little or no morale.

Kimaiyo said they are aware of the problems and pledged to lead the service in ensuring they are addressed within five years.

“It will entail renewed focus on intelligence-led policing, enhancing surveillance by incorporating CCTV cameras and integrating vital data needed for effective management. The camera will be linked to a revamped National Crime Command Centre,” said Kimaiyo.

He said they plan to form a reforms directorate to oversee the strategy implementation process and identify reform champions in the service. The police boss said they intend to launch a new motto for the service dubbed “Service with dignity” (Huduma yenye heshima).

The plan calls for harmonisation of terms and conditions of service and proper handling of the vetting process and continuous recruitment.