Key institutions within Kenya’s Criminal Justice System have convened in Mombasa County for a high-level strategic communication meeting aimed at enhancing collaboration and streamlining information flow across agencies.
The ongoing forum, which brings together Heads of Communication from various justice and security entities, is part of a broader initiative to foster effective inter-agency engagement in the delivery of justice and law enforcement services. Participants in the meeting include the National Police Service Commission (NPSC), Ministry of Interior and National Administration, National Police Service, Kenya Police Service, Administration Police Service, Directorate of Criminal Investigations, Internal Affairs Unit, Witness Protection Unit, Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP).
According to the NPSC, the sessions are providing a platform for critical reflection on the outcomes of previous engagements, with a comprehensive review of past retreats. Discussions are focused on the communication implications of current justice and security issues, and how unified messaging can bolster public trust in the system.
A significant aspect of the forum has been the sharing of operational challenges that agencies face in executing their mandates. These include misalignment of messaging, lack of coordination in public information dissemination, and limited resources for strategic communication. By openly addressing these hurdles, the forum has allowed for collaborative brainstorming on practical, sustainable solutions.
“This meeting underscores the importance of unified and effective communication in the justice sector. It’s not just about telling our stories better, but about aligning efforts to improve accountability, transparency, and responsiveness,” said a representative from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions.
The event is sponsored by the International Justice Mission (IJM), an international organization dedicated to promoting justice and human rights. IJM’s support highlights its ongoing commitment to strengthening institutional capacity and promoting accountability in Kenya’s Criminal Justice System.
As the meeting progresses, participating bodies are expected to draft a joint communication framework to guide future engagements and promote a cohesive approach to public information and internal communication strategies.
