KIAMBU: The Kiambu Law Courts, in collaboration with the Kiambu County Government, have initiated the county’s Community Service Order (CSO) programme, which offers an alternative sentencing approach designed to ease prison overcrowding.
According to Kenya News Agency, the programme allows minor offenders to serve their sentences outside of jail by participating in community work within the county. Speaking at the launch event held at the Kiambu Market Bus Park, Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi highlighted the programme’s dual benefits for the county and the offenders. He emphasized that the initiative is not only about alleviating pressure on the prison system but also about providing individuals with the opportunity to take responsibility and contribute positively to their community.
Governor Wamatangi also commended the Judicial and Probation officers for their efforts in establishing the programme and pledged his support to aid offenders in their reintegration process. He indicated that those who demons
trate responsibility and good behaviour during their community service might be considered for employment opportunities by the County Government.
Chief Magistrate Gethi Kibiru pointed out that the programme aims to promote rehabilitation over punishment, by focusing on three key objectives: reducing prison congestion, reintegrating minor offenders into society, and cutting the costs associated with maintaining these individuals in prison. This approach ultimately lessens the burden on taxpayers while fostering responsibility and accountability among offenders.
Presiding Judge Abigail Mshila expressed her gratitude to the governor and the county government for their collaboration with the Judiciary. She urged Kiambu residents to accept the offenders back into the community, reinforcing the programme’s rehabilitative intent. Mshila also encouraged offenders to adhere to their community service obligations, warning that failing to do so could result in further imprisonment.
Among the beneficiaries of the prog
ramme is Daniel Wanjiku, a petty offender, who is part of the 95 CSOs engaged in community service in Kiambu. Wanjiku shared his experience and urged young people to avoid crime, highlighting the lack of benefits in going to prison.
The launch event marked the release of 95 non-violent offenders from Kiambu and Ruiru Prisons, who will be involved in various community projects such as maintaining public spaces, participating in environmental clean-ups, and road rehabilitation, all under the supervision of Probation officers.
Court officials also announced plans to expand the CSO programme in December, intending to involve more community-based projects and extend its impact across Kiambu. The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Deputy Governor Rosemary Kirika, Lady Justice Dorah Chepkwony, Head of Kiambu Prisons Joseph Kiarie, Kiambu Law Society of Kenya chair Beth Fundi, and a group of MCAs led by Deputy Majority Leader Francis Koina and Minority Leader Joe Kigara.