By Ashley Kariuki
The National Police Service (NPS) officially flagged off its athletics team ahead of the highly anticipated National Track and Field Championships.
The event, which serves as the grand finale of the local athletics season, is set to take place from Wednesday, June 25, to Friday, June 27, at the Ulinzi Sports Complex in Nairobi.
Presiding over the ceremony was the Director of Reforms, Mr. John Kamau, Assistant Inspector General (AIG), who represented the Inspector General of Police, Mr. Douglas Kanja.
In his remarks, Mr. Kamau reaffirmed the unwavering support of the NPS towards its sports teams, highlighting the Service’s proud history in athletics.
He noted that police athletes have for years dominated both local and international competitions, including the Olympic Games, and expressed confidence that the current team would continue that legacy.
“As you represent the Service at the national level, remember you are also flying the Kenyan flag. Uphold discipline, integrity, and commitment as ambassadors of the National Police Service,” said Mr. Kamau while handing over the official flag to the team.
Mr. Stephen Etyang’, AIG and Chairman of the NPS Sports Committee, praised the continuous support from the Service and applauded the efforts of the local organising committee.
He emphasized the importance of sports in building character and fostering unity among officers, and shared optimism about the team’s performance at the championships.
Other senior officials present included Mr. Ramadhan Omar, AIG and Sports Director of the Administration Police Service; Mr. Joseph Chirchir, CP and Vice Chairperson of Athletics NPS; Mr. Isaac Sang, SSP and Director of Sports at Kenya Police Service; and Mr. Muriuki Raria, SSP and NPS Athletics Team Manager, among others.
The flag-off ceremony not only demonstrated NPS’s strong commitment to sports but also reinforced its role in promoting physical fitness, teamwork and national pride through athletics.