Widows, orphans of cops killed in line of duty get government jobs

At least six widows and three orphans of police officers who died in the line of duty have been employed by the government in a programme to support their families.

Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, who is also the acting CS for Interior, said 29 police officers were killed in the line of duty in 2024.

That’s a decline from 37 deaths in 2023. Most of the victims this year died in terrorist attacks and livestock theft raids; two officers were killed in attacks by citizens.

A list of the fallen officers’ names was officially unveiled at a memorial in Embakasi, as a tribute to their sacrifice in protecting the country.

“I encourage the leadership of our police and prison services to continue supporting the families of these heroes and heroines,” Mudavadi said.

“It is comforting that six widows and three orphans were recruited during the last cohort in January 2023. I am assured that qualified widows, widowers, orphans, and the next of kin will also be considered in subsequent recruitments,” he said.

Mudavadi spoke on Friday in a ceremony to honour police officers and prison officers who died in the line of duty.

The commemoration was held at the National Police Service Embakasi campus.

Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo was among those in attendance.

Tears flowed from widows, widowers, family, and friends of the slain police officers.

Benson Nderitu Mwangi mourned his 29-year-old son who died in November, early in his police career.

His dream was cut short by an attack by al-Shabaab militants in Mandera county.

“They were attacked in Mandera. If the government had equipped the police properly, they wouldn’t have been killed,” he said.

Two officers were killed by members of the public.

One was killed while trying to rescue young girls from undergoing FGM in Elgeyo Marakwet county.

Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja urged for respect for police officers.

“Kenyans need to respect the police and understand that no one is above the law,” he said.

In addition to the government’s promise of job opportunities to widows and orphans of fallen officers, a Veterans’ Bill is in the works to fast-track compensation and improve working conditions for police officers. Mudavadi reaffirmed the government’s commitment to enhancing the welfare and working conditions of officers and their families.

“Key initiatives include providing decent housing, improving medical services, and offering counseling to those facing mental or social challenges,” he said.

“Additionally, as promised during last year’s ceremony, the establishment of a Veterans Endowment Fund is underway, with the necessary legislation already in progress.”

The Prime CS said the solemn occasion was a powerful reminder of police bravery and selflessness, as they dedicated their lives to keeping Kenya safe.

“Their sacrifices not only safeguard our country but also solidify its standing as a beacon of safety on the global stage,” he said.