Ruto Unveils Pay Review and Reforms at Prison Officers' Pass-Out as 3,862 Graduate

President William Ruto officiated the 46th Prisons Recruits Pass-Out Parade at the Prisons Staff Training College in Ruiru on February 26, 2026, where 3,862 young men and women completed nine months of rigorous training.

Addressing the newly graduated officers, President Ruto emphasized the Kenya Prisons Service’s broader mandate.

“As the country’s latest cohort of recruits, you are joining a disciplined service whose mandate extends far beyond the safe custody of prisoners.”

“Your duty is to strengthen social order, support the administration of justice, and help build safer communities across our nation.”

He highlighted the role of security in national development, linking the officers’ responsibilities to Kenya’s transformation into a first-world economy:

“Critical to this journey are three vital enablers: Education and human capital development, national unity and patriotism, and peace, stability, and security. It is on this third enabler, security, that you, as prison officers, play a critical and indispensable role.”

Salary Review Boosts Welfare

President Ruto announced the implementation of salary increments for officers, citing the Maraga Taskforce Report.

“Following the implementation of Phase I and Phase II of the salary review, the entry pay for a prison constable has risen by 36%, while the maximum point of the salary scale has grown by 24%. Phase III of the salary review will take effect on 1st July, 2026.”

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“This is clear evidence of the government’s sustained resolve to improve the welfare and motivation of our correctional officers.”

He also confirmed the government’s commitment to professionalizing the service:

“The government is fully committed to supporting you and providing the necessary resources to strengthen welfare, uplift morale, and enhance the professionalism of all our disciplined services.”

Healthcare and Institutional Support

President Ruto highlighted improvements in healthcare for the Prisons Service staff through the Social Health Authority (SHA):

“All Kenya Prisons Service staff are now guaranteed access to quality healthcare services across the country through the Comprehensive Health Insurance Scheme under the Social Health Authority (SHA).”

He urged complete compliance with inmates’ registration:

“The registration of inmates under SHA stands at over 56%. While this is commendable, it is not enough. I therefore expect the State Department for Correctional Services to take all the necessary measures to achieve 100% compliance within the shortest time possible.”

The new Wanini Kireri Magereza Level IV Hospital was officially handed over to serve both officers and the local community.

Environmental and Agricultural Initiatives

The President commended the Prisons Service for contributing to Kenya’s environmental goals:

“In support of the national target of planting 15 billion trees by 2032, the Service has already planted over 6.8 million trees.”

“The institutionalisation of tree planting every fourth Thursday of the month further demonstrates your commendable commitment to environmental sustainability and climate resilience.”

On agriculture, he noted:

“The seven maize-producing stations have achieved about 85% of the projected harvest, rice production at Mwea Prison Farm has reached 60% of the anticipated yield, while vegetable production across stations stands at about 70%. These gains underscore our steady progress toward food security and agricultural sustainability within the Service.”

Housing and Digital Transformation

President Ruto revealed plans for officer housing and digital integration:

“I have directed the State Department for Housing and Urban Development to build 28,000 institutional housing units for the Kenya Prisons Service.”

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“A dedicated portion will support the Probation and Aftercare Service, ensuring our officers live in dignified and secure homes befitting their service.”

On digital systems:

“Today, over 70% of correctional facilities are connected to the National Fibre Network, enabling seamless and real-time information sharing across the criminal justice agencies.”

“This integration is already enhancing efficiency, strengthening coordination, and reinforcing transparency and accountability.”

Upholding Discipline and Integrity

Closing his remarks, President Ruto urged the new officers to embrace professionalism, integrity, and patriotism:

“Maintain zero tolerance for malpractice and let discipline and patriotism guide your actions as you contribute, both individually and collectively, to the transformation of our great country.”

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