Kenya has launched a new digital system to improve efficiency in the police service as part of ongoing reforms.
{Image Courtesy: @JBoinnet}
The Digital Human Resource Information System will bear accurate, real-time data on each police officer, including their recruitment, training, career progress, deployment, family records, and other related information.
Interior and Coordination of National Government cabinet secretary Fred Matiang’I said the technology reforms are aimed at infusing accountability, efficiency, honesty and professionalism amongst officers as part of the ongoing police reforms.
Matiang’i said police officers would in future have to embrace technology to keep pace with the evolution of crime and come up with new crime fighting techniques.
He said the elaborate intranet system will enhance the ability of the National Police Service to share local information and intelligence within the security fraternity on a national and international scale as appropriate at the touch of a button.
The system supports the selection, recruitment, and management of police officers, deployment, performance appraisals, merit-based promotions, and transparent transfers.
ICT Cabinet Secretary Joe Mucheru described the system as a step in the right direction and challenged other government agencies and departments to emulate the same to counter the evolving criminal tactics.
“Embracing technology is no longer an option for all government departments, especially the security sector. We will make sure the police data gathered is secure through a biometric system,” Mucheru said.
Inspector General of Police Joseph Boinnet noted that the system would bring fairness in the police disciplinary process.
He said a police officer’s track record will contribute significantly to investigating allegations of misconduct from members of the public or internally.
