Ruto: Phase III prisons pay rise to take effect July 1, 2026

Speaking during the 46th recruits pass-out parade at the Prisons Staff Training College in Ruiru, Kiambu County, Ruto said 3,862 officers had completed nine months of training.

“I am delighted to join you today as we celebrate the achievement of 3,862 officers, young men and women who have successfully completed nine months of rigorous training,” the President said.

On pay, he said the increments were being implemented in line with the Maraga Taskforce Report.

“I… take particular pride in the implementation of salary increments for officers of the Kenya Prisons Service in line with the recommendations of the Maraga Taskforce Report,” Ruto said.

“Following the implementation of Phase I and Phase II of the salary review, the entry pay for a prison constable has risen by 36%, while the maximum point of the salary scale has grown by 24%,” he added.

“Phase III of the salary review will take effect on 1st July, 2026,” Ruto said.

The President said the government was fast-tracking legal and policy reforms in the correctional services sector, noting that the Correctional Services Bill and Policy is expected to be ready for Cabinet.

“In line with my earlier directive, the Ministry of Interior and National Administration is… fast-tracking the finalisation of the Correctional Services Bill and Policy,” he said.

“I am pleased to note that the process is firmly on course for Cabinet consideration by April 2026,” he added.

Ruto also said prisons officers are now covered under the Comprehensive Health Insurance Scheme through the Social Health Authority (SHA), and directed that inmate registration be accelerated.

“The registration of inmates under SHA is a key priority and stands at over 56%. While this is commendable, it is not enough,” he said.

“I therefore expect the State Department for Correctional Services to take all the necessary measures to achieve 100% compliance within the shortest time possible,” Ruto added.

He also referenced the establishment of the Wanini Kireri Magereza Level IV Hospital at the training college, saying it will serve officers and the surrounding community.

“The establishment of the Wanini Kireri Magereza Level IV Hospital… marks a decisive step in expanding access to quality healthcare. The facility will serve our officers and the surrounding community,” he said.

On conservation, the President said the Prisons Service had made progress in tree planting efforts.

“In support of the national target of planting 15 billion trees by 2032, the Service has already planted over 6.8 million trees,” Ruto said.

“An additional 1.87 million mature seedlings are ready for transplanting in 76 departmental tree nurseries,” he added.