CORRECTIONAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT STEPS UP EFFORTS TO ESTABLISH DAY CARE CENTRES ACROSS WOMEN PRISONS

By Nicholas Kigondu

The State department for Correctional Services is exploring collaboration with partners to have all women prisons in the country equipped with day care centres.

Speaking during a meeting with Freedom from Within Kenya Chief Executive Officer Dr. Mary Waceke, Principal Secretary Dr. Salome Beacco said the move, that would see all the 46 women prisons spread across the country establish fully equipped day care centres complete with play areas and nurseries, is meant to improve the welfare of children living with their incarcerated mothers.

This she said would provide a more nurturing environment for the children while providing their mothers with favorable environments to undertake rehabilitation and vocational training

While pledging her support towards the endeavor, Waceke said it was important to support the creation of supportive environments for rehabilitation especially among vulnerable populations.

Freedom from Within Kenya in partnership with Triad foundation is currently constructing a dedicated mother and child unit at the Embu women’s prison meant to provide a safe, nurturing space for incarcerated mothers and their children.