CORRECTIONAL SERVICES PS CALLS FOR ESTABLISHMENT OF MENTAL WELLNESS COMMITTEES

By Martha Munyambu

Correctional Services Principal Secretary Dr. Salome M-Beacco has underscored the significance of mental health and wellness among staff at the department in the ongoing efforts aimed at achieving excellence.

Speaking during a tour of Yatta GK prison and the Yatta probation station in Machakos County, the PS said the government remains committed to addressing challenges faced by those working in correctional centres including financial and emotional welfare.

The PS directed the establishment of mental wellness committees across all prisons and probation stations to ensure the mental and emotional needs of staff are well addressed even as she challenged the head of stations to embrace collaborations with stakeholders and partners in an effort to fast-track ongoing reforms.

“Let's be committed and embrace selflessness for the common good. Let's aim to go to the next level,” she implored.

The PS noted that reforms in the correctional system require a multi-sectoral approach, urging officers to prioritize self-care and embrace prudent financial management saying a financially stable workforce is essential for effective Service delivery.

She said the department has adopted a whole of government approach to help in decongestion efforts in an endeavour that has seen the judiciary release dozens of inmates through community service orders. 

And as part of efforts to increase forest cover and reduce the effects of climate change in line with President William Ruto’s pledge to have the country plant 15 billion trees by 2032, the PS said the department will dedicate every first Thursday of the month to tree planting.

During the visit to the Yatta GK prison, the PS handed over an assortment of goods from her office and donations from various stakeholders.

Photo by Patrick Ambani