Kenya’s planned change of police uniforms has placed a relatively new company, Nalitex, in the spotlight after reports emerged that it is among the firms contracted to supply the new outfits at an estimated Sh25,000 per working uniform set.
The National Police Service (NPS) is preparing to introduce a new appearance for general-duty officers, with Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja confirming that officers will begin transitioning to the new uniforms from Monday, August 31, 2026.
The changes will see officers move away from the predominantly dark-blue uniforms that have been in use since 2018.
The new design features a light-blue shirt or blouse accompanied by deep navy-blue trousers, marking another significant change in the visual identity of the Kenyan police.
President William Ruto is expected to officially unveil the new uniform during a passing-out ceremony for thousands of police recruits at the National Police Training College in Kiganjo, Nyeri County.
How much will the new police uniforms cost?
According to information sighted by Nairobi News, a complete working uniform is estimated to cost about Sh25,000 per officer, while ceremonial regalia is priced at approximately Sh30,000.
The working kit reportedly comprises several items, including trousers, a shirt, jacket, T-shirt, beret, sweater, socks, belt, lanyard and raincoat.
The financial implications become more significant when the number of officers being equipped is considered.
The first major batch expected to receive the new outfits includes approximately 6,000 recruits graduating from the police training programme.
At Sh25,000 for each working uniform, supplying the 6,000 recruits would translate to approximately Sh150 million.
If ceremonial regalia costing about Sh30,000 per recruit is included, another Sh180 million would be required, taking the combined figure to roughly Sh330 million, before the cost of footwear and other requirements is added.
Police boots are separately estimated at between Sh2,000 and Sh2,700 per pair.
The expenditure could become considerably larger once the wider National Police Service establishment is considered.
Kenya has an estimated 110,000 police officers, although not every unit is expected to adopt the new design.
Specialised formations, including the General Service Unit (GSU), Critical Infrastructure Protection Unit, Security of Government Buildings and Rapid Deployment Unit, are expected to retain their existing uniforms.
Spotlight turns to Nalitex
Much of the attention surrounding the new uniforms has shifted to Nalitex, the company reported to be the main supplier.
Business registration information cited in reports indicates that Nalitex was incorporated on May 3, 2024.
The company is reported to have Selpha Chesimi Temoi as its sole director and shareholder, with her listed residence in Kapsokwony, Mount Elgon, Bungoma County.
Its registered office is reportedly at Hifadhi House in Nairobi’s Central Business District.
The relatively recent incorporation of the company has inevitably generated public interest, particularly because the uniform programme involves a potentially substantial allocation of public funds.
However, the company’s recent registration by itself does not establish wrongdoing or irregularity.
Any concerns surrounding the procurement process would need to be addressed through the relevant government procurement records, tender documents, evaluations and oversight mechanisms.
Why the uniform change matters
The uniform switch comes eight years after the previous major change in the appearance of Kenya’s general-duty police officers.
The new design is being introduced as the government prepares to equip a new generation of officers entering the National Police Service.
For the authorities, uniforms are more than simply clothing.
They are part of the public image of the police service and are intended to promote uniformity, identification and professional presentation.
The timing is also significant because the new attire will be introduced as thousands of recruits complete their training and join the service.
A potentially bigger bill
While the Sh330 million figure associated with 6,000 recruits gives an indication of the immediate cost, the long-term expenditure could be much higher if the new uniforms are rolled out to eligible officers across the country.
Reports indicate that officers receive two working uniform sets annually, meaning the procurement could become a recurring expenditure rather than a one-off purchase.
That makes the procurement process particularly important because taxpayers will ultimately finance future replacements, additions and related equipment.
The National Police Service continues to publish procurement information through its official tender platform, including tenders covering police footwear and other supplies.
Public interest likely to grow
The uniform project is therefore attracting attention on two fronts: the visible transformation of Kenya’s police force and the money involved in outfitting officers.
As the first officers begin wearing the new attire, public discussion is likely to focus on whether the new uniforms improve comfort, durability and professionalism, as well as whether the government is receiving value for money.
For Nalitex, the rollout could represent a major opportunity to establish itself as a significant supplier to the government.
For taxpayers, however, the key issue will be ensuring that the procurement and subsequent payments are transparent, properly documented and subject to the required oversight.
With the first major unveiling expected during the Kiganjo passing-out parade, the new police uniform is set to become one of the most visible changes within Kenya’s security sector in 2026.
FOLLOW NAIROBI NEWS ON FACEBOOK
