IG KANJA ATTENDS NATIONAL THANKSGIVING SERVICE FOR UNIFORMED SERVICES IN NAIROBI
Today, the Inspector General of Police, Mr.Douglas Kanja, joined congregants at the Holy Family Minor Basilica in Nairobi for a National Joint Prayers and Thanksgiving Service for uniformed and disciplined services and their families from the Nairobi Region. The IG was accompanied by the DIG–KPS, Mr. Eliud Lagat; DIG–APS, Mr. Gilbert Masengeli; Mr. Sospeter Munyi, SAIG, representing the Director of Criminal Investigations; and other Service Commanders. These included the Chief Conservator of Forests, Kenya Forest Service, Mr. Alex Lemarkoko; the Commissioner General of the Kenya Prisons Service, Mr. Patrick Aranduh; Mr. Johana Tonui, representing the Director General of the Kenya Wildlife Service; the Nairobi Region National Youth Service Commander, Mr. William Otieno, representing the Commandant General of the NYS.
Themed “God strengthens and keeps me secure” (Psalm 18:32–33), the service brought together representatives from various security agencies across the region, including the Kenya Police Service (KPS), Administration Police Service (APS), Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), Kenya Prisons Service (KPS), Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), Kenya Forest Service (KFS), and National Youth Service (NYS). The service was presided over by the Rt. Rev. George Muthaka, Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Garissa and in-charge of the Uniformed and Disciplined Services Chaplaincy. In his sermon, Bishop Muthaka commended officers for their selfless sacrifice and steadfast dedication to their challenging duties throughout the year, urging them to remain thankful and continually seek God’s blessings.
Drawing from the biblical story of Naaman, the Bishop encouraged officers to serve with humility, noting that pride can delay breakthroughs. He underscored the importance of obedience as a pathway to blessings, reminding congregants that simple instructions carry great power when they come from God. He further emphasized that faith requires action, just as Naaman had to step into the river to receive his healing. The Bishop also urged officers to cultivate gratitude toward one another, regardless of rank or status. He emphasized the importance of treating members of the public with dignity and respect in the course of duty. Additionally, he encouraged officers to take care of their families, noting that after service—whether due to illness or retirement—family remains the cornerstone of hope and support. He advised officers to educate their children well to secure their future.
In his remarks, the Inspector General thanked all congregants for attending the service and commended officers for their dedication to their often volatile and demanding duties. He urged them to pray for grace and anchor their hope in the event’s theme, “God strengthens and keeps me secure.” He further encouraged all officers to remain steadfast in serving the nation in line with the Service’s motto, “Service with Dignity.” The IG also reminded officers to remain vigilant as the festive season approaches.
The Chief Guest, Dr. Jane Kere Imbunya, Principal Secretary, State Department for Public Service and Human Capital Development, conveyed greetings and appreciation from H.E. Dr. William Ruto, President of the Republic of Kenya. In her remarks, she cited Proverbs 21:31, highlighting that while preparation and diligence are essential, the final outcome of every challenge is ultimately determined by God. She emphasized the need for readiness, responsibility, and reliance on divine providence. Dr. Imbunya concluded her remarks by reminding officers that the uniform they wear is not about conformity but about the duty and honour it represents, adding that discipline remains the key to success.
Also present were the Principal Assistant to the IG, Mr. Mathew Kutoh, SAIG; the Principal Deputy to DIG–KPS, Mr. Patrick Tito, SAIG; the Commandant of the GSU, Mr. Ranson Lolmodooni, SAIG; the Director of Community Policing, KPS, Ms. Judy Lamet, SAIG; Mr. Thomas Kabute, SAIG; and the NPS Spokesperson, Mr. Muchiri Nyaga, AIG, among other senior officers.
