By Tajeu Shadrack Nkapapa
Dr. Salome Beacco, Principal Secretary of the State Department for Correctional Services, has lauded the assistance received from partners, emphasizing that strategic collaborations are essential for achieving the anticipated transformation within the nation’s correctional facilities.
During a speech at the Kenya Prisons Service Headquarters, the Principal Secretary expressed gratitude for the generous contributions amounting to 49.5 million shillings from the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC Nairobi) and the Kenya Red Cross, emphasizing the importance of such support in promoting dignified living conditions for inmates.
“It gives me great pleasure to be here today during this auspicious occasion to receive donations from the International Committee of the Red Cross largely meant to contribute towards improvement of the conditions of those in detention,” she said.
According to the State Department for Correctional Services the included LMS Emergency Water Treatment Unit, assorted medical and Stationary items which will be distributed to different correctional institutions across the country.
The PS also appreciated the support of different stakeholders in infrastructure development, donation of dignity packs, mattresses, blankets and beds among others.
Cristiana Scano, the Acting Head of the ICRC Delegation in Kenya, stated that her organization is dedicated to working alongside the State Department to uphold the dignity of individuals within correctional facilities.
State Department for Correctional Services further said that ICRC has previously supported the State Department in other programs including improving quarantine facilities during the Covid-19 pandemic, improving water and sanitation, capacity building for prison officers among other partnerships.
Among the attendees at the ceremony alongside the PS was Commissioner General of Prisons, Patrick Aranduh.