
By Dennis Muritu
In a powerful show of unity and compassion, the Church and the Government have pledged to work together to provide over 20,000 beds to correctional facilities across the country by the end of the year. The joint initiative aims to ease congestion and improve the dignity of inmates in Kenyan prisons.
Speaking during the official launch of the “He For He” initiative at Nairobi West Prison, Principal Secretary for Correctional Services, Dr. Salome Beacco, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to transforming prison conditions through collaboration with stakeholders. She stated that the government plans to deliver the beds in phases, with the target set to be achieved before the end of the year.

“We are committed to ensuring that our prisons are not just places of confinement but centers of dignity and reform,” said PS Beacco. “This partnership is a true example of what we can accomplish when we work together as a nation.”
Archbishop Philip Anyolo of the Metropolitan Churches, who also addressed the gathering, lauded the government’s efforts and vowed to rally faith-based organizations to support the cause.
“We must treat all people with dignity, including those behind bars. The Church will continue to mobilize resources and partnerships to ensure prisons are safe, humane, and conducive for transformation,” Archbishop Anyolo said.
The event marks the beginning of a nationwide campaign to support prison reforms through public-private and faith-based partnerships. It reflects the growing recognition that rehabilitation, not punishment, should be the cornerstone of the correctional system.