The Kenya Prisons Service is on a mission to modernize and mechanize its prison farms and industries as part of the broader initiative to drive economic growth and self-sufficiency. In the last financial year, the prison farms generated a total of 154,727,085 shillings, while the industries contributed 159,979,097 shillings in revenue. The proceeds from these ventures are being reinvested into a revolving fund aimed at enhancing the department’s capacity to expand its operations.
The prison farms focus on achieving food self-sufficiency and generating surplus produce for sale. Among the key agricultural activities being carried out are livestock and fish farming, maize, rice, and potato seed production, as well as afforestation efforts, which include the planting of a variety of trees, including fruit trees.
In addition to agriculture, the prison industries are playing a pivotal role in the economic empowerment of inmates. Over 5,000 inmates are being trained in valuable skills such as carpentry, masonry, baking, and beadwork. The products of their labor are showcased in showrooms across the country, where the public can purchase them, further boosting the department's revenue.
Speaking at a meeting with prison farm and industry managers at the Prisons Staff Training College, Dr. Salome Beacco, Principal Secretary for Correctional Services, commended the prison farm managers for their efforts in contributing to the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda. She emphasized the importance of continuous improvement and innovation within the workshops and the acquisition of more modern equipment to address current challenges and increase production.
Commissioner General of Prisons, Patrick Aranduh, also praised the officers for their dedication in managing the farms and industries. He urged them to continue their hard work and strive for even greater achievements in the coming year.
With a clear focus on enhancing productivity and supporting the government's broader economic agenda, the Kenya Prisons Service is well on its way to transforming its operations into a sustainable source of revenue and an important contributor to the country’s economic development.
