NAIROBI – Members of Parliament have raised serious concerns over deteriorating conditions in Kenyan prisons, citing overcrowded facilities, inadequate resources, and a worrying spike in scams linked to inmates.
Speaking during a session with the Departmental Committee on Administration and Internal Security, MPs called for urgent reforms, including better treatment of both inmates and prison officers.
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Prison Officers and Inmates Struggling Alike
Maragua MP Mary Wamaua painted a grim picture of the situation behind bars. “Our prisoners are in tatters, barely clothed. And our officers are living in hardship. Why can’t they get allowances like teachers do?” she asked.
In response, Deputy Commissioner General of Prisons, Florence Aranduh, acknowledged the challenges but blamed budget constraints. “We’ve distributed new uniforms nationwide, but the current budget can’t provide for every inmate consistently. As for hardship allowances, they’re only provided where public service guidelines allow,” she explained.
Judiciary and Prison Coordination
Efforts to decongest prisons are ongoing through enhanced coordination with the Judiciary. Aranduh noted that inmates are now being reassigned based on the severity of their crimes. However, she admitted that systemic reforms are long overdue.
Rehabilitation Over Punishment
The Deputy Commissioner General emphasized the importance of focusing on rehabilitation and education programs for inmates. “Before we can transform prisons, we must first address the underlying causes of criminal behavior. Rehabilitation must begin with readiness,” she said.
She cited new partnerships for vocational training and educational support as critical to meaningful change, alongside gradual implementation of the Moody Awori prison reform recommendations.
Parliament Pledges Continued Oversight
The Committee on Implementation and Oversight of Correctional Services (CIOC) pledged to continue pushing for sweeping reforms. These include better infrastructure, equitable resource distribution, and preserving the dignity of all people within the penal system.
With mounting pressure from lawmakers and the public, the call for comprehensive prison reforms in Kenya has grown louder, marking a turning point in the national dialogue on justice and rehabilitation.
