Kenyan police officers return after UN mission in South Sudan
By Kenneth Mwenda, April 1, 2026The National Police Service Kenya (NPS) has welcomed back a team of officers who had been serving under the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).
In a statement on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, the NPS said eleven officers had returned to the country after completing an 18-month deployment in South Sudan.
The officers were drawn from the Kenya Police Service, Administration Police Service, and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI). They served under the command of Silas Kiptoo.
The team arrived safely and reported to the NPS headquarters at Jogoo House in Nairobi, where they were received by Mathew Kutoh, Principal Assistant to the Inspector-General of Police. He represented the Inspector-General, Douglas Kanja.
Kutoh praised the officers for their conduct during the mission, noting that they upheld discipline throughout their deployment.
“He noted that the fact that no disciplinary case was reported during their tour of duty is a credit to the Service and proof that they were excellent ambassadors for Kenya,” the statement reads.
The officers served in a region that continues to face security and humanitarian challenges. Under UNMISS, their work included protecting civilians, supporting humanitarian operations, and helping to maintain peace and stability.
Kutoh urged the returning officers to apply the skills and experience they gained abroad to their duties back home.
He added that the Service expects them to help improve policing standards across the country. He stressed the need to turn police stations and service areas into centres of excellence.
The reception was also attended by the NPS Staff Officer for Peace Support Operations, Albert Masese.
Kenya’s peacekeeping role recognised
Kenya remains an active contributor to United Nations peacekeeping missions. Its officers play a key role in supporting fragile states, especially in Africa.
Earlier in February 2026, Kenyan officers serving under UNMISS received international recognition for their work. During a medal award ceremony held on February 7, 2026, the Inspector-General commended the contingent for its professionalism and dedication.
A total of 27 Kenyan police officers received medals during the ceremony. Among those recognised was Silas Kiptoo, who also led the team that has now returned home.
Kenyan officers in South Sudan carry out both day and night patrols to prevent violence and protect civilians. They also help secure key installations and support local peace efforts.
The return of the eleven officers marks the end of one deployment, but Kenya’s role in international peacekeeping continues.