The State Department for Correctional Services Principal Secretary, Dr. Salome Beacco, has commissioned 100 new housing units at Shimo la Tewa GK Prison as part of an initiative to improve the housing conditions for prison officers.
This marks the beginning of a nationwide effort to construct 28,000 housing units, ensuring that every prison officer can reside within the prison premises.
In her address, PS Beacco emphasized the government’s commitment to modern, affordable housing through the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), highlighting the Department’s role in this national transformation. “We want to see how progressively we can improve the houses for the prison officers,” she stated.
PS Beacco underscored the importance of public participation, stating that officers’ preferences would be considered in the design of housing units. “We will include public participation for the officers to determine which types of houses they request,” she said.
She also stressed the necessity of a Whole-of-Government Approach, noting the partnership with the Ministry of Housing to ensure the successful implementation of this housing project.
Additionally, she highlighted the modernization of prison industries and mechanization of prison farms under BETA, aiming to equip offenders with up-to-date skills for increased production.
The State Department is also planning to recruit more prison officers in phases to enhance security within correctional facilities. During her visit to Kwale Probation Station, Kwale Main, and Women’s Prisons, PS Beacco urged officers to avoid corruption and emphasized the importance of financial management. “I encourage you to manage finances and family well,” she advised.
Reiterating the Department’s focus on improving the welfare of both officers and inmates, PS Beacco referred to the Maraga report’s recommendations.
She assured inmates that efforts are being made to fast-track cases through the Judiciary to reduce caseloads and aid in decongesting prisons.
This initiative is a significant step towards enhancing the living conditions and overall welfare of Kenya’s correctional officers and inmates, reflecting the government’s broader commitment to transformative and inclusive development.
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