Nairobi: Interior and National Administration Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has presided over the 13th Edition of the National Police Service (NPS) Cross-Country Championship 2025 with an aim of protecting the welfare of security officers ensuring they remain fit, disciplined, and motivated in their demanding roles. The championship brought officers from across the country and elite athletes within the police force, many of whom have represented Kenya in international competitions. The races featured categories for both men and women, with participants covering varying distances under strict competition rules.
According to Kenya News Agency, speaking during the flagging off of the championship, CS Murkomen lauded the National Police Service for prioritising physical wellness, which he emphasised is critical to maintaining operational readiness. He remarked that such events not only enhance physical fitness but also build teamwork and mental resilience, qualities essential in policing. He emphasised team collaboration and commended the athletes for their performance, assuring them of the government’s support, adding that sports is essential in enhancing their mental health.
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, in a speech read on his behalf by the Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat, commended the athletes for their achievements, sportsmanship, and talent development. He stated that NPS celebrated the exceptional performance of its athletes, showcasing the immense talent within the force and reinforcing its dominance in sports. The achievements highlight the core values of the service: integrity, partnership, patriotism, and transparency. He emphasised the importance of a competitive and winning mentality, friendship, and team spirit as key pillars of the NPS’s vision for professional, efficient, and responsive policing.
Teams from various units participated with pride, representing their formations and carrying their responsibilities with distinction. Outstanding performers will now have the chance to compete in regional and international events, reflecting the service’s commitment to excellence. The selected team members were reminded of their role as ambassadors of the police service and the nation, with collective success symbolising the dedication of the NPS to supporting its athletes through training and resource provision.
Officers were urged to maintain ethical conduct, uphold clean competition, and avoid malpractices such as the use of performance-enhancing substances. Reflecting on the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, the NPS celebrated its contribution to Kenya’s medal tally. Of the 11 medals won by the nation, four were secured by police athletes, demonstrating their determination and will to succeed on the global stage.
As the NPS continues to invest in sports and collaborate with stakeholders, it aims to preserve its rich athletic heritage and prepare for future challenges. This commitment reflects the service’s broader dedication to fostering discipline, teamwork, and national pride among its officers. National Police Service Chairperson Eliud Kinuthia encouraged the officers to engage in sports to help them curb challenges since it keeps their mind fresh. He also encouraged them to take advantage of government programmes and register in SHA despite registering in the police insurance programme together with their families.
Kinuthia commended the organising team for their efforts so that Kenya can continue shining in career progress and job morale. He asked the commanders to allow a tractable programme for the athletes to balance their work as police officers with training harder to continue carrying the nation’s flag high.