Kenya police are often accused of corruption

Serious crime has risen fast in Kenya, particularly in the capital, Nairobi, called "Nairobbery" by some and the police have a reputation for bribery.

President Mwai Kibaki's government has promised to stamp out corruption and fight crime in a bid to attract back foreign investors and tourists.

Police pay will now start at $130 a month (10,000 Kenyan shillings).

Bloated wage bill

The minister in charge of security Dr Chris Murungaru has said the new salaries will benefit the regular police, administration police, prison officers and the National Youth Service.

The BBC's Alice Muthengi in Nairobi says the officers are upbeat about their pay and are also looking forward to promised improvements in their accommodation.

The pay increment comes after German Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder extended $64m in aid to Kenya during his recent visit.

Western donors resumed aid to Kenya this year but have been pushing the government to reduce its bloated civil servants wage bill.