President William Ruto has announced that Phase III of salary increases for prison officers will take effect on July 1, 2026, as part of a broader plan to improve welfare, housing, healthcare, food production and digital systems within the Kenya Prisons Service.
The President said the pay review follows earlier adjustments that raised entry-level salaries for prison constables by 36 percent and increased the top salary scale by 24 percent under Phases I and II.
He spoke on Thursday during the 46th Passing Out Parade of 3,862 recruits at the Kenya Prisons Service Staff Training College in Ruiru.
Addressing the newly trained officers, the President said their graduation marked a renewed push to reform and strengthen the criminal justice system.
“This auspicious occasion reaffirms the government’s firm commitment to strengthening and transforming our criminal justice system into one that upholds the rule of law, protects rights, and advances progressive reforms to enhance public safety,” he declared.
He told the recruits that their role goes beyond guarding inmates, noting that they are key to maintaining order, supporting the justice system and ensuring communities remain safe.
President William Ruto inspects a guard of honour during the pass-out parade for prison personnel at Prisons Staff Training College, Ruiru, Kiambu County on February 26, 2026. PHOTOS/PCS
He tied their duties to the country’s development plan, saying security remains central to service delivery and national growth.
“Your duty is to strengthen social order, support the administration of justice, and help build safer communities across our nation. This remains the cornerstone of our national security and service delivery,” the president said.
On staff welfare, the President said the ongoing salary review was guided by the Maraga Taskforce recommendations. He noted that Phases I and II had already improved pay for prison constables and assured officers that the final phase would be implemented mid-year.
“Phase III of the salary review will take effect on July 1, 2026,” the president confirmed, calling it evidence of the government’s “sustained resolve” to motivate correctional staff.
He added that the Correctional Services Bill and Policy are being finalised and are expected before Cabinet by April 2026, a move aimed at anchoring reforms in law.
Healthcare access was also highlighted, with all prison staff now covered under the Social Health Authority scheme. Registration of inmates has passed 56 percent, though the President said the figure must improve and directed officers to ensure full enrolment. He also noted that the Wanini Kireri Magereza Level IV Hospital is now operational, expanding access to treatment.
Environmental conservation remains part of the Service’s work.
The President said prison officers have planted more than 6.8 million trees under the Greening Kenya Agenda, with 1.87 million seedlings raised in 76 nurseries.
He pointed out that tree planting takes place every fourth Thursday of the month and said the effort has helped push national tree cover to 12 percent.
“I commend the Kenya Prisons Service for the notable progress made under the Greening Kenya Agenda,” he said, urging maximum effort in the coming rainy season.
On housing, the President said plans are in place to build 28,000 units for the Prisons Service, including facilities for Probation and Aftercare staff.
President William Ruto delivering his speech during the pass-out parade for prison personnel at Prisons Staff Training College, Ruiru, Kiambu County on February 26, 2026. PHOTO/PCS
Phase One is underway in selected stations. At the same time, the Probation Service has brought in 470 new officers who are set to be deployed.
He also cited gains in food production under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda. Maize stations are at 85 percent of their projected harvest, rice production in Mwea stands at 60 percent, and vegetable farming is at 70 percent.
“These gains reaffirm our steady progress toward food security and agricultural sustainability within the Service,” the president observed.
Digital reforms are also taking shape through the Integrated Correctional Information Management System.
More than 70 percent of prison facilities are now connected to the National Fibre Network, enabling real-time data sharing and stronger accountability.
In his closing remarks, the President urged the recruits to serve with discipline and honesty.
“Uphold the law, safeguard society, and rehabilitate inmates with professionalism and integrity. Maintain zero tolerance for malpractice and let discipline and patriotism guide your actions as you contribute to the transformation of our great country.”
The event marked the formal entry of 3,862 officers into service after nine months of training, as the government set out a wide-ranging plan to strengthen the capacity, welfare and impact of the Kenya Prisons Service.
