CORRECTIONAL SERVICES PS HOLDS MEETING WITH EU AMBASSADOR OVER ONGOING REFORMS

By Martha Munyambu 

Correctional Services PS Dr. Salome Beacco says the state department is exploring strategic partnerships aimed at attaining excellence in correctional services.

Speaking during a meeting with European Union (EU) Ambassador to Kenya Henriette Geiger and programme manager Line Urban, the PS said corrections service requires sound partnership with all stakeholders due to its critical role in the criminal justice system.

The meeting held at the State Department headquarters focused on leveraging the EU's expertise and resources to modernize Kenya's Correctional facilities and enhance inmates’ rehabilitation programs within the penal institutions. 

 “Our Correctional facilities are in dire need of modernization to improve the living conditions of the inmates and ensure effective rehabilitation. Partnering with EU will bring in professional expertise which is essential for this transformation” she noted.

The EU Ambassador expressed willingness to support Kenya's efforts to improve its Correctional facilities including implementation of a comprehensive Information and Communication Technology (ICT) system that will see inmates’ records and administrative processes digitized as well as enhancing vocational training and rehabilitation programs for offenders. 

The PS noted that appropriate ICT infrastructure will streamline operations, tracking of inmate progress and improve overall management of correctional centres besides enhancing efficiency.

“An efficient ICT system will not only enhance internal processes but also facilitate better coordination with other government departments, as well as support our efforts in rehabilitating inmates and preparing them for reintegration back into society,” stated the PS.