Kenyan Prison System Slated for Major Renovation

KENYA, Africa — The Kenya prison system is expected to undergo a major renovation that could include up to $1 billion in improvements and drastic changes to prisons in the country.

Labeled the Kenya Prisons Service Charter and Strategic Plan for 2005-2009, the plan proposes physical, personnel and maintenance improvements to existing facilities.

An inadequate physical infrastructure has hindered the system, creating an atmosphere that is non-conducive to the rehabilitation of prisoners, according to officials. Creating modern and maintainable infrastructures will be an important part of the overhaul. New reformation programs are part of the plan, calling for the implementation of new staff services in areas of criminology, sociology, psychology, social work and psychiatry.

The construction of 2,500 housing units for staff has been proposed, and prison officials will participate in programs that will offer them a better-defined career path with opportunities for advancement and medical insurance.

The purchase of new prison vehicles for prisoner transport and modern cooking systems for prison kitchens are included in the proposal. Other improvements include installation of security surveillance systems in the principal institutions and improvements to water-supply systems to avoid shortages.

Officials believe that, while ambitious, the proposals in the five-year plan are achievable.