Rivatex has initiated fabric production for Kenya's new police uniforms, with managing director Thomas Kipkurgat expressing confidence in meeting the 60,000-meter target within a month using newly acquired machinery. The material will be sent to the National Youth Service for uniform assembly. Kipkurgat highlighted the government's recognition of the company's role in advancing the Big Four economic agenda through this contract.
"The sample we presented to security officials last month was approved," Kipkurgat stated, referencing the visit by top security leaders including Inspector General Joseph Boinnet. President Uhuru Kenyatta's 2018 directive emphasized local production of the uniforms to strengthen domestic manufacturing. The fabric, composed of cotton and polyester, was tested for durability, water resistance, and color retention, according to the company.
The new uniforms will replace older designs worn by 64,252 officers following the 2018 merger of the Kenya Police Service and Administration Police. Kipkurgat noted the firm is upgrading equipment to increase daily output from 5,000 meters to 40,000 meters, aiming to reduce reliance on imported cotton. Current lint costs stand at Sh160 per kilogram, rising to Sh190 when imported, he said.
