By Dorothy Musyoka
The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) has reinforced its partnership with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) to accelerate the rollout of Kenya’s Diversion Policy.
This follows a consultative meeting held at the ODPP Coast Regional Office, where both institutions reviewed progress and shared experiences in implementing the policy, which provides alternatives to prosecution—particularly for children and other vulnerable groups in conflict with the law.
“ODPP has strengthened its partnership with UNODC to accelerate the implementation of the Diversion policy,” stated ODPP.
Speaking during the meeting, Regional Head and Senior Assistant DPP, Joseph Kimanthi, reiterated ODPP’s commitment to ensuring fair and inclusive prosecutions.
He commended UNODC for its support in building institutional capacity, noting that strong partnerships remain key to a child-friendly and victim-sensitive justice system.
Prosecutors underscored the importance of stakeholder buy-in, proper record-keeping through the Uadilifu Case Management System, and increased investment in training, staffing, and resources to expand Diversion initiatives nationally.
On their part, UNODC representatives welcomed the feedback, acknowledging that the lessons learned from the Coast region will inform wider justice reforms.
Both institutions reaffirmed their resolve to entrench Diversion as a cornerstone of Kenya’s progressive justice agenda.