Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has announced a government plan to acquire more than 180 housing units in Mombasa as part of efforts to address the long-standing accommodation challenges facing police officers.

During an inspection tour of properties in Bombolulu and Makande, the Inspector General said the houses, owned by the Teleposta Pension Scheme, are under consideration for purchase by the state for use by officers stationed in the Coast region.

Kanja said the government is looking at acquiring 88 two-bedroom units in Bombolulu and 100 single-bedroom units in Makande, noting that the move could significantly improve the living conditions of officers who have long struggled with inadequate housing.

“The welfare of our officers has not been very good when it comes to housing. If we are able to acquire these units, a large number of officers in the Coast region will benefit,” he said.

He noted that many officers are currently living in overcrowded conditions or in private rental units, a situation he said undermines both their well-being and effective command structures.

“In some cases, you find four officers sharing a small room with their families. These units we have inspected are a big improvement,” he added.

Kanja emphasized that the proposed housing sites are strategically located, allowing for easier coordination and faster deployment of officers when needed.

“When officers are concentrated in one area, it becomes easier to deploy them at short notice compared to when they are scattered in private residences,” he said.

The visit, which included senior government officials and representatives from Teleposta, forms part of the due diligence process before any acquisition is finalized.

Kanja described the initiative as part of a broader effort to modernize the National Police Service, including ongoing investments in housing across the country.

He also noted that police officers are among the beneficiaries of the government’s affordable housing programme, with a portion of the units reserved for members of the disciplined services.

The proposed acquisition is expected to ease pressure on existing police housing stock while improving welfare and operational efficiency within the service.