More than 300 police chaplains drawn from across the country have undergone specialised training aimed at equipping them to mentor, counsel and support police officers grappling with rising mental health and family-related challenges.
The training, which brought together chaplains serving in different police formations, is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen officers at the grassroots level and enhance their wellbeing, performance and service to the public.
Speaking during the forum, Assistant Inspector General of Police and Director of Complaints, Inspections and Quality Assurance, Haron Nthiga, said police officers are increasingly exposed to stressful and traumatic experiences that affect their mental and emotional health.
Nthiga noted that officers often encounter distressing situations such as road accidents, violent crime scenes, and prolonged deployments in hostile or high-risk areas, which can take a toll on both their professional effectiveness and family life.
“These officers are human beings. They go through difficult experiences during the course of duty, and if not properly supported, these challenges can affect their judgement, relationships and overall performance,” he said.
He explained that the chaplains are being trained to mentor officers, help them cope with stress, and guide them back to emotional stability when affected by work-related or personal challenges.
According to Nthiga, the initiative complements existing counselling services within the National Police Service.
“The police service has counsellors and chaplains who play a key role in rehabilitating officers. The government has over the years recruited more counsellors, though we still face challenges due to limited numbers and counselling centres, which are mostly located at county level,” he added.
Nthiga urged officers facing personal or professional difficulties to speak out and seek help from trained counsellors, chaplains or commanders who have undergone leadership training.
He also called on members of the public to embrace and support police officers, noting their critical role in protecting lives and property.
On his part, Bishop Dr. Kibet Kipkoech, who facilitated part of the training, said the chaplains were equipped with skills to identify and support officers experiencing deep mental and emotional distress.
“Police officers face hardships just like other members of society. Keeping quiet while suffering mentally only worsens the situation. This training is meant to improve the police force and, ultimately, society,” he said.
Dr. Kibet acknowledged that the country still faces a shortage of chaplains but noted that the government has gradually increased their numbers and continues to deploy more where gaps exist.
By Muoki Charles
