The Cathedral Basilica of the Holy Family in Nairobi hosted the National Joint Thanksgiving Service for Uniformed Disciplined Services and their families, bringing together senior government officials, Service Commanders, officers, their families and clergy in a celebration of faith, unity and national service.
The event marked the culmination of months of planning and inter-agency collaboration spearheaded by the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) since March 2026. It brought together seven disciplined services under a shared commitment to give thanks and reaffirm their dedication to serving the nation.
Delivering the sermon, the Rt. Rev. George Muthaka, O.F.M. Cap., Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Garissa, urged officers to remain grounded in faith as they navigate the demands and challenges of their calling. He commended the Service Commanders and officers for their dedication and sacrifice in safeguarding the country, encouraging them to remain steadfast in promoting peace and national harmony.
The Chief Guest, Inspector General of Police Mr. Douglas Kanja Kirocho, MGH, CBS, OGW, reaffirmed the critical role of the disciplined services in safeguarding national security, maintaining public order and promoting stability. He assured the participating formations of continued support from his office and called for enhanced cooperation in addressing emerging security challenges.
He also challenged Kenyans to take a firm stand against gender-based violence (GBV) and drug and substance abuse, urging individuals and communities to reject these vices and protect families from their devastating consequences. He emphasised that a secure and peaceful country requires collective responsibility, discipline and unity, while urging officers to remain committed to their constitutional mandates and serve the public with dedication.
Deputy Commandant Mr. Wilson Leboo, ndc (K), representing the National Chairman, emphasised the importance of unity, mutual respect and cooperation among the participating formations. He called on officers to look beyond their individual institutional mandates and embrace a shared purpose in protecting the country, noting that the strength of the disciplined services lies in their ability to work together and support one another in discharging their responsibilities.
National Coordinator Fr. Paul Miring’u appreciated all participating formations for their commitment and cooperation throughout the planning process. He particularly recognized KFS for its leadership and sustained coordination of the initiative, as well as the KFS Band for its continued contribution to the joint activities.
A notable highlight of the service was the presentation of service tools and instruments of work before the Chaplaincy for blessing, symbolizing the officers’ dedication to duty and commitment to responsible service.
The participating formations were the Kenya Forest Service, Kenya Wildlife Service, Kenya Police Service, Administration Police Service, Directorate of Criminal Investigations, Kenya Prisons Service and National Youth Service.
KFS’s leadership in coordinating the initiative from its inception to the national celebration underscored the importance of inter-agency collaboration in strengthening institutional relationships and promoting a shared commitment to national service.
Beyond the prayers and thanksgiving, the gathering celebrated the sacrifices made by officers, recognized the invaluable support of their families and strengthened bonds of fellowship across the disciplined services.
The occasion served as a powerful reminder that although the formations operate under different mandates, they remain united by one common purpose: protecting the people, preserving peace and building a secure and harmonious Kenya.
