President William Ruto has announced that Kenya Prison Service wardens will receive salary increases starting July 1, 2026.
Speaking on Thursday, February 26, at the Prisons Staff Training College in Ruiru during a passing-out parade, Ruto said the hike aligns with the recommendations of the David Maraga Taskforce.
He noted that Phases 1 and 2 of the salary review have already been implemented.
Government Approves Salary Increment for Kenya Prison Service Staff. Photo: Courtesy.
According to the President, the new pay increase is intended to boost the welfare and morale of prison officers.
Phase III of the review, set to take effect in July, demonstrates the government’s ongoing commitment to improving the working conditions and motivation of correctional staff.
During the pass-out parade, President William Ruto directed the State Department for Housing and Urban Development to construct 28,000 institutional housing units for the Kenya Prisons Service.
He said the units will support the probation and aftercare services, providing correctional officers with dignified and secure homes.
Phase one of the project, covering roughly 30% of the total initiative, is already underway, targeting selected facilities, with additional units planned.
In 2023, President Ruto had pledged a 40 percent salary increase for police officers and prison wardens following recommendations from the David Maraga–led task force on police reforms.
Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo confirmed that salaries will continue to increase progressively over the next three years.
He also noted that broader security sector reforms, guided by a strategic framework focusing on four key areas, are expected to be fully implemented within four years.
