Government improving prison officers welfare through improved salaries, healthcare and better houses, Ruto says
The government is focusing on improving the welfare of prison officers who have suffered decades of neglect, President William Ruto has said. He said the administration is rolling out highly transformative policies entailing improved salaries, provision of better healthcare and dignified houses in a bid to make correctional services better working places for the officers. [...] The post…
President William Ruto emphasized the government's efforts to enhance the welfare of prison officers, who have endured years of neglect. The administration is implementing transformative policies to improve their working conditions, including better salaries, healthcare, and housing.
During the 27th Pass-Out Parade for Kenya Prisons Service Cadets at the Prisons Staff Training College in Ruiru, Kiambu County, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki announced that prison officers' salaries have been increased in two phases of recent salary reviews. Entry-level remuneration for a prison constable saw a more than 36% rise, while the maximum salary point increased by around 24% in Phase II. Phase III, set to take effect on July 1, 2026, demonstrates the government's commitment to officers' welfare and motivation.
To ensure access to better healthcare, the President stated that officers have been enrolled under Usalama Cover, provided by the Social Health Authority. Additionally, a 150-bed Wanini Kireri Magereza Level IV Referral Hospital has been opened at the Prisons Staff Training College, accessible to officers, their families, inmates, and the surrounding community.
Furthermore, the Prison Service will benefit from 28,000 units under the Affordable Housing Programme, with 9,000 units procured through public-private partnerships. The government has also acquired 41 vehicles under Phase VII of the Government Motor Vehicle Leasing Programme to expand the service's operational fleet, with plans to invest in electric vehicles in the future.
Ruto urged the Kenya Prisons Service to adopt modern technologies to keep pace with the demands of a sophisticated correctional service. He highlighted the challenges posed by advanced technologies and various crimes, stating that a modern correctional service is necessary to effectively address these threats. The government is investing in modernization, urging officers to enhance their skills and uphold the highest standards of professionalism and integrity.
Written by urgent.news from KahawaTungu's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
