State invests in modern correctional facilities to improve rehabilitation

BERNARD MUNYAO-KNA

The government is investing in modern prison infrastructure and strengthening partnerships with non-state actors to transform correctional facilities into centres of rehabilitation, State Department for Correctional Services Principal Secretary Dr. Salome Beacco has said.

Speaking while commissioning a new administration block, five office units, and a refurbished accommodation block at Murang’a Women GK Prison, State Department for Correctional Services Principal Secretary Dr. Salome Beacco said the ongoing reforms are aimed at creating correctional institutions that promote rehabilitation, dignity and successful reintegration into society.

Dr. Beacco said the government is moving away from a purely punitive approach to one that focuses on rehabilitation and restorative justice, noting that improved infrastructure plays a critical role in achieving this objective.

“The Government remains committed to modernizing correctional institutions to ensure they effectively support rehabilitation while providing secure, humane and dignified environments for both inmates and officers,” she remarked.

The PS noted that the department is increasingly leveraging public-private partnerships to accelerate reforms, acknowledging the contribution of development partners and civil society organizations in improving prison facilities and inmate welfare.

Among the projects commissioned was a refurbished mixed accommodation block designed to provide a more child-friendly environment for children who accompany their incarcerated mothers.

The upgraded facility offers larger, well-equipped rooms, enabling mothers to care for their children in a safer and more dignified setting while serving their sentences. 

Dr. Beacco said such investments recognize the unique needs of women inmates and their children, adding that correctional facilities must uphold the rights and welfare of all persons under state custody.

During the same occasion, Freedom Within Kenya Director Dr. Mary Waceke said the organization partnered with the State Department for Correctional Services to support the rehabilitation of incarcerated mothers and improve the wellbeing of children living within correctional facilities.

She stated that creating conducive living spaces for mothers and their children enhances emotional wellbeing, strengthens family bonds and contributes to successful rehabilitation and eventual reintegration into society.

Echo Network Africa Chief of Party Sarah Muhoya on her part underscored the importance of collaboration between government and non-state actors in advancing correctional reforms.

She observed that empowering women, including those in correctional institutions, has far-reaching benefits that extend beyond prison walls.

“When women are empowered, the impact is felt across families and communities, creating more inclusive, resilient and dignified societies,” she added.

While commending the facelift at the Murang’a Women GK Prison, the Principal Secretary challenged correctional officers to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, integrity and discipline.

She reminded officers that the success of correctional reforms depends not only on improved infrastructure but also on the dedication and commitment of the personnel entrusted with managing the institutions.

“Each officer carries a solemn responsibility bestowed by the Constitution, the laws of Kenya and the public trust. Safe custody remains your foremost responsibility.

"Every person committed to our custody must remain secure, protected and accounted for throughout their period of incarceration,” added the PS.

The event was attended by Probation and Aftercare Service Acting Secretary Shadrack Kavutai, Director of Reforms at the Kenya Prisons Service SACGP Ali Athman among others.