Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja addressing journalists as School's Principal John Thumbi (left) and Board of Management chairman Victor Maina ( right) looks on. Photo/Paul Wanjiru
By MKT Correspondent
Worth Noting:
- Accompanied by among others, East African Legislative Assembly member Kanini Kega, School’s Board of Management chairman Victor Maina and senior security officers from the county, Kanja spent considerable time interacting with students, teachers, and school administrators.
- The IG who chairs the institution’s Infrastructure Development committee emphasized the importance of a collaborative approach to ensuring safety in educational institutions, which have become increasingly vulnerable to issues such as drug abuse and violence.
- “Education is the foundation of any society, and it is essential that we protect our youth and their learning environments,” Kanja remarked during his address to the students and staff.

In a significant move to enhance school infrastructure and promote security, Inspector General of Police (IG) Douglas Kanja visited St Joseph Allamano Sec School Secondary School in Kabaru Ward, Kieni constituency, Nyeri County last weekend.
During the visit, Kanja commissioned several completed infrastructure projects at the school, reinforcing his commitment to fostering community engagement and improving the relationship between law enforcement and local communities.
Accompanied by among others, East African Legislative Assembly member Kanini Kega, School’s Board of Management chairman Victor Maina and senior security officers from the county, Kanja spent considerable time interacting with students, teachers, and school administrators.
The IG who chairs the institution’s Infrastructure Development committee emphasized the importance of a collaborative approach to ensuring safety in educational institutions, which have become increasingly vulnerable to issues such as drug abuse and violence.
“Education is the foundation of any society, and it is essential that we protect our youth and their learning environments,” Kanja remarked during his address to the students and staff.
“Our goal is to create a safe space where students can thrive and build their futures free from the threat of crime or insecurity,” he added.
He also outlined plans to enhance police presence around educational institutions as part of broader national security efforts.
Kanja’s visit to the school comes amid growing concerns over school security, particularly among parents and educators.
The IG assured the school community that the police would continue engaging with schools through community policing initiatives, which aim to foster trust and ensure that law enforcement is seen as an ally rather than a distant authority.
As part of his tour, Kanja formally opened a newly constructed main gate and modern ablution blocks for both boys and girls, as well as accessible facilities for students with disabilities.
The projects were funded by the National Government in collaboration with the Government of the Republic of China.
The IG emphasized the importance of improving safety infrastructure, such as lighting and perimeter fencing, to prevent unauthorized access to school grounds.
Additionally, he encouraged the school to conduct regular workshops and awareness campaigns on personal safety and crime prevention. He recognized the significance of educating students on security matters to help create a safer and more responsible school environment.
The visit concluded with Kanja urging both the school community and law enforcement to continue working together in promoting peace, unity, and the well-being of the youth. “We all have a role to play in creating a safe environment for our children to learn and grow,” he stated.
Local leaders later praised Kanja’s proactive approach to community safety, calling his visit to the school a positive step toward creating safer educational spaces across the country.
At the same time, the IG noted that the police force is in the process of digitalization of all the systems of the police force including in the police stations and even traffic officers who can issue official digital receipts after constant fines.
During the occasion, the school principal, John Thumbi, thanked the IG for his role in the commissioning of new infrastructure at the school.
Speaking to students, teachers, and guests, Thumbi expressed his gratitude for the significant improvements that the new facilities, including a modern main gate and ablution blocks for boys, girls, and students with disabilities, would bring to the school.
The school Principal and BoM chairman acknowledged the support of the National Government and the Government of the Republic of China for funding the projects.
“The opening of these new facilities marks a milestone in our efforts to provide a safe and conducive learning environment for our students,” said the Principal.
On his part the BoM chairman noted, “We are deeply grateful to the Inspector General and all stakeholders for their commitment to enhancing school infrastructure and security.”
The principal also highlighted the importance of collaboration between the police and educational institutions, emphasizing that a secure school environment is vital for the academic success and overall well-being of the students.
“We look forward to continued support from law enforcement in ensuring the safety of our students and staff,” he added, as he thanked IG Kanja for his visit and support.
Throughout the Saturday afternoon event, Kega who is also a former MP for Kieni, kept a low profile