MURANGÁ WOMEN GK PRISON RECEIVES FACELIFT

By Nicholas Kigondu

State Department for Correctional Services Principal Secretary Dr. Salome Beacco says the government remains committed to upgrading infrastructure within correctional facilities as part of ongoing efforts to shift the criminal justice system from a purely punitive to a rehabilitative model.

Speaking while commissioning a new administration block, five new offices, and a refurbished mixed block at the Murangá women GK Prison, the PS said the department is leveraging public-private partnerships to realize envisaged reforms.

“The Government remains committed to modernizing correctional institutions to ensure they effectively support rehabilitation while providing secure, humane, and dignified environments,” said the PS.

The refurbished mixed block will allow children accompanying their mothers to share spacious, and well-equipped rooms with their mothers.

Speaking during the event, Freedom Within Kenya Director Dr Mary Waceke said her organisation chose to partner with the department to support its ongoing efforts to rehabilitate incarcerated mothers and support children accompanying their mothers.

According to Echo Network Africa chief of party Sarah Muhoya, non-state actors remain integral players in supporting the government deliver on its mandate, adding that empowering women creates a ripple effect of progress, transforming entire communities into more inclusive, resilient, and dignified environments.

And as the Murangá women GK prison received a facelift, the PS challenged officers working in the department to remain committed in their work saying the effectiveness of any institution ultimately depends on the professionalism, discipline and commitment of the officers entrusted with its management and operations.

 “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. “She observed.

Among those who attended the event, included Probation and Aftercare Service Acting Secretary Shadrack Kavutai, Director of Reforms at KPS SACGP Ali Athman, who was representing the Commissioner General of Prisons, senior staff from the State Department for Correctional Services, and stakeholders who partner with the department in its reform agenda.