Daily Trends

Over the past decade, Kenya’s police have undergone a remarkable transformation, redefining their relationship with the public through wide-ranging reforms and a renewed focus on accountability, professionalism, and community trust.

Historically, policing in Kenya was shaped by a colonial legacy rooted in control, intimidation, and fear—a system that persisted long after independence. For years, the police were perceived as instruments of authority rather than partners in public service. However, growing public pressure, human rights activism, and increased media scrutiny of police misconduct paved the way for a new era of reform.

A major turning point came with the enactment of the 2010 Constitution, which restructured the Kenya Police Force into the National Police Service (NPS). This shift was more than symbolic—it marked the beginning of a deliberate effort to transform the police from a “force” mentality to a service-oriented institution. Oversight bodies such as the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) were established to ensure transparency, discipline, and accountability within the ranks.

According to the Inspector General (IG) of Police, these changes have yielded a more disciplined and well-regulated service, supported by multiple oversight mechanisms and modern training programs. The focus has moved from merely enforcing authority to protecting citizens, upholding human rights, and fostering peace.

Central to this transformation is the community policing initiative, commonly known as Nyumba Kumi, which encourages collaboration between citizens and law enforcement officers. Through these partnerships, the police have been able to address social challenges such as the rise in drug use among young people, especially girl-child 5% increase compared boy-child due to the decline in parental guidance since parents have become so busy, together with internet which exposes those children act greater than thier age.The approach promotes collective responsibility for safety, where both citizens and officers work hand in hand to reduce crime and maintain harmony.

Despite these strides, the IG acknowledged that some communities still struggle to fully embrace the police, with incidents where officers face hostility or disrespect from the very people they serve. Such situations, he noted, can leave officers vulnerable and undermine efforts to build mutual trust. He urged citizens to view police officers as integral members of their communities, emphasizing that cooperation and mutual respect are essential for sustainable peace and security.

As Kenya continues to refine its policing model, the goal remains clear: to create a service that not only enforces the law but also embodies the values of empathy, respect, and partnership. The transformation may be gradual, but the vision is steadfast—a police service that truly serves and protects all Kenyans through trust, accountability, and shared responsibility.

“Today we have presented a proposal to do a sports tournament with the youth and the police so as to bridge the gap because sports is a unifying factor in the community ” Dr Blessings Mabberi noted.

She also applauded the IG, ” We commend the IGP for the exemplary leadership offered leading to key transformations and discipline in the force.”

During the visit the team presented a Peace award to the IGP in recognition of his efforts in keeping peace law, and order.

When 47-year-old Rose Namakula was diagnosed with stage 3 oesophageal cancer last year, her life took a devastating turn. Doctors warned her family that her chances of survival were slim. But today, she stands as a picture of health — and her story has stirred conversations about faith, healing, and the limits of medical science.

After several months of treatment at Nsambya Hospital and the Uganda Cancer Institute in Mulago, Namakula’s condition worsened. The cancer had spread through her oesophagus, making it impossible for her to eat or even swallow saliva.

“She couldn’t take in anything. The doctors suggested inserting a feeding tube to keep her alive,” said her son, who spoke to this publication. “At that point, we had lost all hope. We even prepared for her burial.”

However, when medical options seemed exhausted, her son persuaded her to seek prayers at Holy City Entebbe, a faith-based ministry led by Bro Ronnie Makabai.

According to Namakula, during a prayer session at the church, she felt “something moves” in her throat — and moments later, she could swallow water without pain. “It felt unreal. For the first time in months, I could drink and breathe freely,” she recalled.

Her family says she regained strength within days and was able to walk again. Follow-up tests at the Uganda Cancer Institute reportedly showed no trace of the disease.

Medical officials, while unable to confirm the cause of her recovery, acknowledged that spontaneous remission — though extremely rare — can occur in some cancer patients. “Medicine doesn’t have all the answers,” said one doctor, who requested anonymity because he was not authorized to speak publicly. “What’s important is that the patient is healthy and well.”

Holy City Entebbe has since highlighted Namakula’s case as evidence of divine healing, though health experts urge caution. “Faith plays a crucial role in emotional resilience,” said Dr. Miriam Akello, a Kampala-based oncologist. “But patients should continue seeking professional care even as they pray.”

For Namakula, the experience has renewed her faith and inspired others in similar struggles. “I believe God gave me another chance at life,” she said during a thanksgiving service at the church. “My message to everyone fighting illness is — don’t give up.”

Whether viewed as a miracle or a medical mystery, her story continues to draw attention across Uganda, reminding many of the complex intersection between faith, science, and hope.