The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has flagged 87 areas within Kenya’s correctional services that are highly prone to bribery, fraud, and other forms of corruption.
Following months of assessments in six regions: Nairobi, Coast, Rift Valley, Eastern, Central, and Nyanza. The anti-graft agency sampled 32 out of the 135 prison stations across the country, uncovering systemic weaknesses in internal controls and financial accountability.
EACC Chairperson Abdi Mohamud revealed that funds collected from individuals upon their apprehension could not be accounted for once the prisoners completed their sentences.
Additionally, the commission highlighted glaring payroll discrepancies among prison wardens, pointing to irregularities and potential ghost workers.“In many instances, we found that the money taken from those arrested disappears from the system without trace. Payroll audits also showed serious inconsistencies,” Mohamud stated.
The report also paints a grim picture of inmate welfare, revealing extremely low earnings for labour, with prisoners making as little as 20 cents for work conducted inside and outside prison facilities. Encroachment of prison land was also noted as a critical issue requiring urgent intervention.
Other concerns flagged include lack of procurement plans, weak internal audit systems, and ineffective oversight mechanisms — vulnerabilities that create fertile ground for graft and mismanagement.
Correctional Services Principal Secretary Dr. Salome Beaco emphasized that the government is committed to addressing the issues in line with international human rights standards, particularly the Nelson Mandela Rules, which guide the treatment of prisoners globally.“The identified weaknesses are being addressed progressively, with full observance of human dignity and international correctional standards,” Dr. Beaco said.
The EACC has recommended immediate interventions, including strengthened oversight, enhanced transparency in financial management, and better welfare provisions for both staff and inmates to restore public trust in the correctional services sector.
