President William Ruto has announced a boost to the health care support of inmates following the registration of prisoners under the Social Health Authority.

Speaking during the 46th recruits pass-out parade at the Prisons Staff Training College in Ruiru, Kiambu County, Ruto said that the establishment of the Wanini Kireri Magereza Level IV Hospital has facilitated a significant boost in the inmates’ health care

“We have enhanced access to healthcare for inmates, with registration of prisoners under the Social Health Authority standing at 56 per cent. This medical cover is being reinforced by the Wanini Kireri Magereza Level IV Hospital, which has boosted the provision of healthcare services,” Ruto said.

He also referenced the establishment of the Wanini Kireri Magereza Level IV Hospital at the Ruiru training college, saying that it will serve officers and the surrounding community.

“The establishment of the Wanini Kireri Magereza Level IV Hospital… marks a decisive step in expanding access to quality healthcare. The facility will serve our officers and the surrounding community,” he said.

Prison housing

At the same time, the Head of State announced that the Kenya Prison Department will benefit from a housing programme that will accommodate over 5000 prison officers in 28000 housing units.

Ruto affirmed that the programme will be completed in four years’ time as part of a move to improve the welfare of the officers in recognition of their vital contribution to keeping security and discipline in the correctional facilities within the country.

“You have my commitment as we embark on building professional cadres in all our security agencies. In fulfilment of the government’s commitment to the welfare of those who serve our nation, I have directed the state department for housing and urban development to build 28k institutional units for our Kenyan prisons department,” Ruto said.

The State Department of Housing and Urban Development has been instructed by me to construct a total of 28,000 institutional units for the Kenyan Prisons Department as part of my promise to ensure the welfare of the Kenyan government officials, as they serve our country and its people.