The Kenya Police

The Kenya Police originated in 1887 as the Coastal Security Unit in Mombasa and was officially established as a British colonial force in 1907. During colonial rule, it was structured to serve British interests, with European and Indian officers in senior positions and Africans in lower ranks. Following independence in 1963, the force was gradually localized, with British officers being replaced by Kenyans.

Colonial origins and development

Early days: Policing in the region started with the Coastal Security Unit in 1887, followed by units from the East Africa Trading Company (1887–1902) and the Kenya-Uganda Railway (after 1902).
Formal establishment: A more formal police force was created in 1907, evolving from the 1906 Police Ordinance. It was named the Nairobi Mounted Police within the East Africa Protectorate.
Colony status: In 1920, with the creation of the British Kenya Colony, the force was officially renamed the Kenya Police.
Dual-tier system: During the colonial era, a two-tier system existed: the Kenya Police Force, which focused on urban areas and settler properties, and the Administration Police, a more informal force at the chief's office.
Increased militarization: The force expanded significantly during the Mau Mau Uprising (1952–1960), with the creation of the Kenya Police Reserve (KPR) in 1948. The KPR included Europeans, Asians, and Africans and played a crucial role in suppressing the rebellion.

Post-independence era

Transition to local leadership: After Kenya gained independence in 1963, British officers were replaced with Kenyan personnel, localizing the force's leadership.
Restructuring and reforms: In the decades following independence, the police force has undergone various reforms. The Security of Government Buildings Unit (SGB) was established in 1977, and in more recent years, there have been efforts to professionalize the service, introduce new organizations like the National Police Service Commission, and address issues of police brutality, though challenges remain.

The History of the Kenya Police 1885- 1960

A Research Report by Hans- Martin Sommer, N M K 1

FORT JESUS MUSEUM MOMBASA Department of Coastal Archaeology and Department of Coastal Sites and Monuments.

The History of the Kenya Police 1885- 1960

A Research Report by Hans- Martin Sommer, N M K 1

FORT JESUS MUSEUM MOMBASA

Department of Coastal Archaeology and Department of Coastal Sites and Monuments

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