The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has backed a proposal to introduce a digital tracking system for police firearms, describing it as a crucial reform that could enhance accountability, improve transparency and strengthen oversight within Kenya’s security sector.
LSK President Charles Kanjama said the proposed shift from traditional manual armory registers to a modern digital system using biometric technology or Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tags would create a secure and tamper-proof record of firearm issuance, movement and use.
According to Kanjama, the adoption of technology-driven tracking mechanisms would help close accountability gaps that have long existed under manual record-keeping systems.
Push for Modern Firearm Management
Speaking on the proposal, Kanjama said every firearm issued by the State should be traceable throughout its lifecycle, making it easier to establish responsibility whenever questions arise over its use.
“The recent parliamentary petition seeking a digital tracking system for police firearms is a vital step toward modern governance,” Kanjama said.
He noted that a digitised system would create a permanent electronic trail, ensuring firearm issuance, deployment and discharge records can be independently verified whenever necessary.
“Every firearm issued by the State should be traceable, every discharge accounted for and every allegation of misuse capable of independent verification,” he added.
Boosting Transparency and Public Confidence
The proposal comes amid growing calls for stronger accountability mechanisms within law enforcement agencies, particularly in cases involving police shootings and allegations of excessive force.
Kanjama argued that while technology alone cannot eliminate misconduct, it can significantly strengthen oversight and support institutions tasked with investigating complaints against police officers.
“Technology cannot replace integrity, but it can significantly strengthen oversight and support the vital work of institutions such as IPOA in safeguarding the rule of law,” he said.
The LSK believes that digital security management systems should become a standard requirement for promoting constitutional accountability and restoring public confidence in policing institutions.
Supporting Investigations Into Firearm Misuse
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has in recent years encountered challenges tracing firearms linked to allegations of unlawful shootings and excessive use of force.
Supporters of the proposal argue that an automated system would make investigations more effective by providing investigators with a detailed electronic history of a firearm’s issuance, use and return.
The availability of real-time data could also help eliminate discrepancies often associated with handwritten records and manual tracking methods.
Security experts have increasingly advocated for technology-driven accountability measures, noting that digital records are harder to manipulate and can provide critical evidence during investigations.
Aligning Kenya With Global Best Practices
If adopted, the proposed system would represent a significant transformation in the management of police firearms in Kenya.
Countries around the world are increasingly embracing digital technologies to improve oversight within security agencies, reduce opportunities for abuse and strengthen public trust in law enforcement institutions.
Advocates say Kenya stands to benefit from similar systems that ensure greater transparency while supporting the work of oversight agencies and investigators.
Kanjama maintained that adopting modern tracking technologies would not only improve firearm management but also reinforce public trust by ensuring every weapon issued by the State remains fully accountable at all times.
