NPSC starts sensitisation programme on police welfare in counties

The National Police Service Commission has begun a comprehensive sensitisation programme across various counties.

The programme is aimed at enhancing NPSC's visibility and strengthening engagement with police officers.

This five-day initiative, spearheaded by the chairperson and commissioners, marks a significant step in bridging the gap between the Commission and police officers, as well as fostering a deeper understanding of NPSC’s mandate, the Commission said.

Among others, the commissioners are teaching police officers how to manage their welfare and especially trauma.

Trauma related to the officers’ work has been a leading cause of deaths in the service.

As part of efforts to address the trend, police authorities have launched counselling services and the commission has established a unit and staffed it to attend to their demanding situation.

The counselling unit will, among other things, evaluate, design and lead an outreach programme that helps prevent mental health and substance abuse.

At least three suicide cases involving police officers are recorded every month.

Officials say police are generally on the receiving end of all community problems.

They are expected to maintain law and order in very difficult situations, besides putting their lives at risk.

Over the years, a spike in deaths in the service has been linked to trauma.

NPSC Vice Chairperson Alice Otwala and Commissioner Eusebius Laibuta led the team in Kiambu County in the sensitisation where officers were briefed on the Commission’s mandate, focusing primarily on among others human resource matters.

The sessions also provided a platform for officers to voice their concerns, notably on issues such as limited access to medical facilities and the lengthy duration of disciplinary processes.

In Machakos County, Commissioner Lilian Kiamba led the discussions, emphasising the distinct role NPSC plays in managing human resource functions within the National Police Service.

Officers were enlightened on the structure and operations of the Commission, as well as the progress made in executing its mandate.

The Kajiado team led by Commissioners John Ole Moyaki and Edwin Cheluget took police officers through the Commission’s mandate, retirement preparation strategies and self-care techniques.

This engagement underscores NPSC’s commitment to supporting police officers through direct interaction and addressing their welfare needs, the commission said.