Influence of Police Visibility on Perceived Public Satisfaction with the Police in Embakasi East Sub County, Nairobi County, Kenya
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47604/jppa.3781Keywords:
Police, Police Visibility, Perceived Public Satisfaction, Embakasi East Sub County, Nairobi CountyAbstract
Purpose: Public confidence in the Police in Kenya has continued to decline as reported by Transparency International Kenya and Missing Voices pointing to corruption, poor service delivery coupled with heavy handed treatment as the key drivers of dissatisfaction. The aim of the study therefore, was to examine the influence of police visibility on perceived public satisfaction with the police in Embakasi east sub county, Nairobi County, Kenya.
Methodology: The study adopted a descriptive research design. The study sampled 400 adult residents across the five wards who visited police stations in Embakasi East Sub County. The sample was selected using Yamane’s formula for quantitative data. Qualitative data were gathered from community leaders, including ward administrators, chiefs, assistant chiefs and Nyumba Kumi leaders.
Findings: The study found that there was a positive and significant effect of police visibility on perceived public satisfaction with the police in Embakasi East sub county (β = 0.486, p = 0.000). This study concludes that perceptions of police patrols in neighborhoods are low. Police engagement through community forums enhances cooperation and trust. Communication channels between the police and the public are moderately effective, while police visibility strengthens neighborhood security and satisfaction.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The National Police Service should increase police visibility and expand community policing initiatives. Regular patrols and sustained engagement through public forums can improve security presence, reduce crime and enhance stronger cooperation between the police and local communities. Strengthening communication channels, including the use of modern technology such as hotlines and mobile reporting platforms can enhance accessibility and make the police more responsive to community needs.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Anthony Ndung`u Nduta, Dr. Benson Gathoni (Ph.D), Dr. Andrew Kimani (Ph.D)
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