Interior Cabinet
Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has urged stakeholders in the correctional
services sector to sustain efforts toward reforms aimed at improving efficiency,
professionalism, and humane treatment within Kenya’s correctional system.
Speaking during a gala dinner marking the close of the
Correctional Service Week, Murkomen said the ongoing transformation within the
State Department for Correctional Services reflects a strong belief that
“change is possible, service is sacred, and that efficiency and humanity can
coexist.”
He commended officers for their dedication and teamwork,
noting that collaboration across the department continues to drive progress in
offender rehabilitation and reintegration.
“I have been especially encouraged by the collaboration that
has permeated every event during which officers from the State Department for
Correctional Services work side by side, as guided by a shared commitment to
service excellence,” he said.
Murkomen added that the exemplary performance witnessed
within the department demonstrates the commitment of officers to ensuring safer
communities and protecting the dignity of those under their care.
He said celebrating excellence within the service helps
promote innovation, integrity, and continued dedication to reform.
“Correctional reform is an administrative undertaking that
entails moral commitment geared towards building a system that is
people-centric, humane, and aligned to standard minimum rules for the treatment
of offenders,” he said.
During the ceremony, 22 individuals and 24 correctional
facilities were recognized for outstanding performance in areas such as
offender rehabilitation, reintegration, and innovation.
The awards included
categories for distinguished and outstanding service, reflecting a broad
recognition of both institutional and individual achievements.
Correctional Services Principal Secretary Dr. Salome Beacco
reaffirmed the department’s commitment to rehabilitation and humane
correctional practices.
“Every life, no matter how broken, carries the potential for
renewal,” she said, adding that corrections should balance discipline with compassion
and professionalism.
The event, themed “Efficient Service Delivery for the Common
Good,” underscored the importance of operational effectiveness in promoting
justice, rehabilitation, and public safety.
Parliamentary Affairs PS Aurelia Rono, Public Service PS Dr.
Jane Imbunya, and Human Capital Development PS Dr. Salome Beacco were among
senior officials present at the event, which capped the third edition of
Correctional Service Week.
Murkomen expressed confidence that the ongoing reforms —
including modernization of facilities and improved welfare of officers — will
help transform correctional services into a world-class institution guided by
compassion, discipline, and accountability.
