Cabinet Secretary for Investments, Trade and Industry Salim Mvurya has called for actionable strategies to address mental health challenges in prisons.
While acknowledging the prevalence of mental health issues in correctional institutions, the CS rooted for health policies that foster better well-being of both the inmates and staff.
Mvurya made the remarks when he officially inaugurated the Correctional Department’s Service Week in Nairobi, themed “Mental health and wellness for effective Service delivery”.
“We must focus on actionable strategies that will lead to improved policies, better access to mental health services, and the creation of environments that foster overall well-being,” he said.
“The mental health and well-being of both staff and inmates are critical to the success of our correctional services. Without a healthy mind, there can be no effective service delivery, no genuine rehabilitation and no successful reintegration into society” he added.
He further highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts to address the problem.
“We must work closely with healthcare providers, development partners, community or people-based organizations, and families. Together, we can build a sustainable support system for mental health within our correctional facilities”
Additionally, Mvurya recognized mental health’s importance in building a resilient correctional system.
“Together, Lets will build a more resilient correctional system where mental wellness serves as foundational bedrock for steering our ability to cope with stress, work effectively, and uphold healthy interpersonal outlook” he advised.
