Ruto unveils plan to lease 3,000 acres of prison land for food production
The President noted that the reforms in the correctional services sector were in line with the broader vision for a more modern, self-reliant, and efficient correctional system.
In a bid to boost food production and reduce the financial strain on public funds, President William Ruto announced plans to lease 3,000 acres of underutilised land from the Kenya Prison Service.
The announcement came during the launch of the National Police Service and Correctional Services Strategic Plans (2023-2027) in Nairobi.
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"We will begin leasing 3,000 acres of arable land that has been lying fallow in many of our prisons. This will not only increase food production but also reduce our dependence on the Exchequer," Ruto said on Friday.
The President noted that the reforms in the correctional services sector were in line with the broader vision for a more modern, self-reliant, and efficient correctional system.
"This initiative will help Kenya Prison Service become more productive and financially independent," he added.
As part of the wider reforms, President Ruto also announced the immediate construction of 28,000 housing units for prison officers, addressing long-standing accommodation issues.
"We are taking decisive steps to improve the living standards of our officers by building new homes to ensure better working conditions," he said.
"Additionally, a vehicle leasing programme will be introduced to improve the prison fleet and facilitate better service delivery across the country.
The plan, which is part of a comprehensive effort to modernise the correctional services, reflects the government's commitment to improving the sector's operational efficiency.
Maraga Taskforce Report's recommendations
These initiatives come on the heels of the Maraga Taskforce Report's recommendations, which have been adopted to guide significant reforms within the Kenya Prison Service.
The proposed changes aim to strengthen the service's capacity and reduce its reliance on government funding.
"We are positioning the correctional services to be more productive and sustainable. This is part of our broader goal to modernise and strengthen all our security services," Ruto said.
Alongside the reforms in the prison service, the President also outlined key elements of the National Police Service Strategic Plan for 2023-2027.
These include the integration of technology in policing, with a focus on enhancing cybersecurity and utilizing drones for border security.
"The introduction of new technologies, such as drones for surveillance and improved ICT systems, will help us stay ahead of emerging security threats," Ruto explained.
President Ruto further highlighted that these strategic plans would also prioritize the welfare of police officers, ensuring they are well-trained, supported, and equipped to meet the country's security needs.
"We are committed to making our police service a trusted, professional, and efficient institution. This strategy will foster a safer environment for all Kenyans, promote accountability, and fight corruption within the force," Ruto concluded.
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