President William Ruto has called on authorities to consider alternative dispute resolution to address prison overcrowding.
More space will also be made available to accommodate the growing prison population.
He stated that work is being done to identify and develop new prison sites.
“This move will provide ample opportunities to impart skills via correctional services in the spirit of rehabilitation and reform.”
The President made the remarks on Monday at the Prisons Staff Training College in Ruiru during the pass-out parade of 222 Prisons Officer Cadets.
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki, Defense Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale, and Commissioner-General of Prisons John Warioba, among other leaders, were present.
According to data, more than 10,000 prisoners are serving sentences of less three years.
Further, 41 per cent of the prison population is awaiting trial for bailable offences.
“It is important for stakeholders in the justice value chain to consider alternatives to imprisonment for minor sentences,” said the President.
He asked the Judiciary to provide leadership in the matter and the Attorney-General to initiate necessary engagements.
