Interior and National Administration Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen officiated the 13th Edition of the National Police Service (NPS) Cross-Country Championship, an event aimed at enhancing the welfare, fitness, and morale of officers tasked with maintaining law and order across the country.
The championship, held at Ngong Racecourse, brought together officers and elite athletes from the National Police Service, many of whom have represented Kenya on the international stage.
Participants competed in various categories, with both men and women showcasing their endurance, discipline, and sportsmanship over varying distances.
A Platform for Fitness and Teamwork
Speaking during the event, CS Murkomen praised the NPS for prioritizing the physical and mental wellness of its officers.
He emphasized that events like these are critical for ensuring operational readiness and resilience within the force.
“Such events not only enhance physical fitness but also build teamwork and mental resilience, qualities essential in policing,” remarked Murkomen during the flagging off of the races.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting sports and athletes within the police force, recognizing the role of such activities in fostering discipline, collaboration, and mental health among officers.
Recognition of Excellence and Talent Development
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, in a speech delivered on his behalf by Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat, commended the athletes for their exceptional performance and underscored the NPS’s dedication to talent development and teamwork.
“NPS celebrates the outstanding achievements of its athletes, showcasing the immense talent within the service and reinforcing our dominance in sports,” Kanja stated.
He added that the championship reflects the core values of integrity, patriotism, and transparency, which are essential to professional policing.
He further emphasized the importance of a winning mentality and lauded the athletes for upholding ethical conduct, urging them to avoid malpractices such as the use of performance-enhancing substances.
Pathway to International Competitions
The event also served as a platform to identify athletes who will represent the police force in regional and international competitions.
These selected athletes were reminded of their role as ambassadors of the police service and the nation at large.
“For those selected to join the service team, your success is a collective success for the National Police Service. Your achievements symbolize the dedication and hard work of the entire police force,” Kanja noted.
Highlighting the NPS’s contribution to Kenya’s success at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where police athletes secured four of the country’s 11 medals, the event reinforced the service’s commitment to excellence on the global stage.
Sports: A Pillar of Discipline and National Pride
National Police Service Chairperson Eliud Kinuthia encouraged officers to actively participate in sports to help them manage professional challenges and maintain mental clarity.
He also urged officers to take advantage of government initiatives such as the SHA program, alongside existing police insurance schemes, to ensure their families’ welfare.
Kinuthia praised the organizers for their efforts in ensuring that Kenya remains a powerhouse in athletics.
He called on commanders to create flexible training schedules for athletes, enabling them to balance their duties with rigorous training to maintain their competitive edge.
A Legacy of Excellence
The championship underscored the NPS’s broader vision of fostering discipline, teamwork, and national pride among its officers.
As the service continues to invest in sports and collaborate with stakeholders, it aims to uphold its rich athletic heritage and prepare for future challenges.
By championing such initiatives, the NPS demonstrates its commitment to the holistic development of its personnel, ensuring they remain motivated, fit, and ready to serve.
This year’s championship was a testament to the unwavering dedication of the National Police Service in not only protecting the nation but also nurturing world-class athletes who proudly fly Kenya’s flag on international podiums.