Elderly offenders aged over 80 years form a significant number of inmates at Vihiga Prison, with most of them serving sentences or awaiting case determination for offences related to illicit brewing, the Officer in Charge has revealed.
Speaking to KNA during an interview at the facility, Officer in Charge Patrick Emojel said many elderly offenders remain in custody because they are unable to raise the Sh100,000 bond or pay fines imposed by the courts.
Emojel noted that the prison currently holds 167 inmates, with the number increasing daily due to offences such as theft, sexual misconduct and illicit brewing, the latter accounting for a large proportion of elderly inmates.
He said the institution has put in place various rehabilitation programmes aimed at transforming inmates and preparing them for successful reintegration into society upon release.
“These programmes include educational, spiritual and welfare initiatives. They help inmates develop morally and spiritually, and many leave the facility having gained a personal relationship with Christ,” said Emojel.
The officer said inmates are free to worship through various denominations represented in the prison, including the Seventh-day Adventist Church, the Catholic Church and other Protestant churches.
For younger inmates and those capable of acquiring skills, the prison offers vocational training in courses such as carpentry, masonry and tailoring. The training is conducted in three stages and examined by the National Industrial Training Authority (NITA).
“The government caters for the examination fees and successful trainees are awarded certificates that can help them secure employment after release,” he added.
Emojel said the prison also prioritises the welfare, health and recreation of inmates. He noted that strict guidelines govern feeding schedules and portions, while inmates with special dietary needs to receive appropriate meals.
The officer disclosed that two nurses attend to inmates daily and that patients requiring advanced medical care are referred to Vihiga County Referral Hospital under police escort since the prison dispensary is currently not operational.
He further said the facility promotes co-curricular activities, including football and mental health programmes, to enhance cordial relations between inmates and prison staff.
Inmates are allowed one phone call to relatives every week, while visitation is permitted on weekdays between 8.00 a.m. and 5.00 p.m.
Emojel said the prison’s goal is to create a conducive environment that promotes rehabilitation and equips inmates with skills that improve their chances of successful reintegration into society.
However, he cited inadequate funding as a major challenge facing the facility, noting that it has hindered the construction of a proper administration block and additional accommodation for inmates, leading to overcrowding.
The officer also raised concerns about the stigma faced by former inmates after their release, saying some choose to remain in prison longer because they fear rejection and hostility from their communities.
“Community members often blame recently released inmates whenever theft cases occur, even when they are not involved. There is a need for public sensitisation to change this perception,” he said.
Emojel appealed to employers to offer opportunities to former inmates who have acquired vocational skills while in prison and urged well-wishers, caregivers and non-governmental organisations to support inmates by donating personal effects and other essential items.
He advised members of the public to avoid engaging in criminal activities, saying crime only hinders personal development and progress.
“Crime does not benefit anyone. It only delays one’s progress in life,” he said.
By Anna Achieng and Henry Ananda
