In a compelling call to action, Dr. Dorcas Rigathi, the Spouse to the Deputy President of Kenya, has urged correctional facilities across the country to integrate prison industries, providing inmates with opportunities to generate income for their bail requirements.
She emphasized the detrimental impact of poverty on detainees' ability to meet bail terms, leading to prolonged stays in correctional services.
The second lady made these remarks during her visit to Chuka Prison in Kathwana on Thursday, 16 November, as part of her Boychild Program under the Rigathi Foundation and the Office of the Spouse of the Deputy President (OSDP).
She underscored the untapped potential within the inmate population, expressing her belief that leveraging their skills and talents through prison industries could not only provide income for detainees but also contribute to driving the nation's economy.
"I have witnessed the skills and talents among you. I am pleased to see that the prison walls do not define your potential," said the second lady during her address.
According to her, the government is committed to supporting correctional facilities by offering training and equipping inmates with practical skills such as driving, masonry, carpentry, and farming. She announced plans for collaboration with Chuka Prison to maximize the productivity of their 120-acre land.
"We will provide farm inputs to enable you to cultivate crops that mature quickly so that even those lacking funds for their bonds can earn something and facilitate their release," she added.
Commending the prison management for aligning with the government's agenda, Rigathi praised their initiative to plant 1000 trees, highlighting it as a tangible demonstration of inclusivity in the Kenya Kwanza government's policies, even for those within correctional facilities.
In a heartfelt message to the inmates, the second lady advised them against succumbing to mental health issues and stress, encouraging them to engage in activities and seek reconciliation and connection with their families.
Among the inmates at Chuka Prison, 151 are married with families, 61 are divorcees, and 64 are unmarried.
Tharaka Nithi Woman Representative Susan Ngugi, in her remarks, drew attention to the absence of a correctional service in Maara Constituency, making it the only constituency in the county without such a facility. Ngugi also highlighted the lack of a women's correctional facility in the county, advocating for government intervention in the matter.
"Tharaka Nithi County faces a huge challenge since it does not have a women's correctional service. The nearest women's prison is in Meru County, where inmates can't be accessed easily by friends and family," she noted.
In addition to her prison visit, the second lady also embarked on a tour of Chuka University for her mentorship program, engaging with students and staff as part of her commitment to empowering the youth.
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