The Principal Secretary (PS) for Correctional Services, Salome Beacco, has outlined ambitious plans for transforming Kenya’s prison system in 2025, with a major focus on digitalization and improving inmate welfare. During a recent interview, Salome shared that her department aims to digitize all services across the country’s 136 prison facilities by the end of the year.
This transformation is part of the broader government initiative to digitize public services, in line with President William Ruto’s agenda. Through a partnership with the World Bank and the ICT department, Salome revealed that a committee was formed last year to design a comprehensive concept note, which has now been approved for implementation. The goal is to move all correctional programs, including probation and aftercare services, fully online to streamline service delivery and ensure efficiency.
In addition to the technological advancements, Salome emphasized the department’s commitment to enhancing the living conditions of both inmates and staff. One notable improvement is the provision of better bedding for male inmates, a move that aligns with the Mandela Rules. Traditionally, female inmates had better bedding facilities, but now male prisoners will also have access to beds, mattresses, and blankets. A pilot program involving triple-decker beds is already underway, with the hope of completing the project by the end of the year.
Moreover, Salome highlighted the ongoing effort to reclaim encroached prison land, which is being reintegrated into the department’s agricultural programs. This land is crucial for expanding horticulture, seed production, and orchard farming, all aimed at improving food production within the facilities.
In terms of decongestion, the prison population has reduced from 64,000 to 59,900, thanks to collaborations with local governors to place petty offenders under probation for community work. This is part of an ongoing effort to make the prison system more efficient, humane, and aligned with international standards.
With these steps, Salome Beacco’s leadership is positioning Kenya’s correctional services for a future marked by technological innovation and enhanced inmate well-being.
