CORRECTIONAL SERVICES PS PLEDGES TO SUSTAIN REFORMS AGENDA

CORRECTIONAL SERVICES PS PLEDGES TO SUSTAIN REFORMS AGENDA 

By Martha Munyambu

The State Department for Correctional Services is leveraging on strategic partnerships and collaboration to improve outcomes.

Speaking during a meeting with Maureen Mimnaugh, the Director Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) at the US Embassy in Nairobi, Principal Secretary Dr. Salome Beacco said cross-sector partnerships have augmented ongoing government initiatives aimed at reforming the country’s correctional services.

While lauding INL for their support on various programmes including capacity building, the PS said there was need to ensure the milestones realized are sustained.

“We have had a long-standing relationship with you, with tremendous impact. As Correctional Services department, we pledge to remain committed to placing human rights at the centre of our ongoing efforts as well as sustain ongoing reforms.” She observed. 

She said the reforms include administrative, legal and policy framework with the Correctional Services Bill and policy, currently undergoing public participation, expected to review and consolidate all laws related to correctional services and offender management.

Mimnaugh, on her part, said her organization remains ready to support the State department in its endeavor to improve outcomes. 

“It is an exciting opportunity to do meaningful work in Kenya. It is important for our efforts to have an impact. Hope we can work together to improve these outcomes.” She said.

The ongoing partnership between the state department and INL also includes capacity building with officers drawn from the Kenya Prisons Service and Probation and Aftercare trained on best practices.

Among those present during Friday’s meeting was Commissioner General of Prisons Patrick Aranduh.