Kenya Prisons Service (KPS)
The Kenya Prisons Service (KPS) operates under the Ministry of Interior and Coordination of National Government, as established by the Prisons Act Cap 90 and Borstal Institutions Act Cap 92. As a uniformed and disciplined service, KPS is led by the Commissioner General of Prisons (CGP). Its primary mandate includes ensuring the safe custody of individuals lawfully committed to its 129 prison facilities, such as the Kamiti Maximum Security Prison, and facilitating the rehabilitation of sentenced offenders for successful reintegration into society.
The current prisoner population stands at approximately 54,000, with 48% being pre-trial detainees and the remainder serving sentences. To manage this population, KPS employs around 22,000 uniformed officers.
KPS is structured into various directorates, each responsible for specific functions:
1. Administration: Manages personnel issues concerning uniformed staff.
2. Prisons Staff Training College: Oversees the training programs for officers across all ranks and cadres.
3. Planning and Development: Focuses on strategic planning and developmental initiatives.
4. Operations: Ensures effective coordination and management of prison facilities nationwide.
5. Prisons Enterprises: Manages technical services and facilitates inmate training programs.
6. Research, Statistics, and Legal Unit: Handles research activities, statistical analyses, and legal matters.
7. Inspections/Complaints: Conducts periodic audits of all prison stations to maintain standards.
8. Prisons Health Services: Provides healthcare services to inmates, aligning with legal provisions and policy documents.
9. Public Relations Office and Training: Enhances the organization's public image and manages communication strategies.
Through these structured efforts, the Kenya Prisons Service aims to uphold public safety and security by maintaining secure custody and promoting the rehabilitation of offenders.
For more detailed information, please visit the official Kenya Prisons Service website: prisons.go.ke