Inmates given rare Jamhuri Day treat to bond with their families

Cliff Mokua and Edwin Mokua, convicted for a violent robbery, shared a meal with their loved ones at Nakuru GK prison during the Prison Open Day, coinciding with Jamhuri Day celebrations on December 12, 2023. [Kipsang Joseph, Standard]

Convicts at the Nakuru Main GK Prisons were full of joy as they celebrated Jamhuri Day with their families at the facility.

The prison was full of visitors carrying assorted items for their loved ones.

Cliff Mokua and Edwin Mokua, 38, twin brothers serving 20 years imprisonment for robbery with violence, were among inmates who enjoyed the goodies brought by their families.

Cliff revealed that he has been in prison since 2012 and has never seen such visitation.

The twin brothers, while celebrating the day with their wives and children, stated that the chance has helped them parent and have time with their families.

Mary Wanjiku was on her part excited when he met his jailed brother Jacob Gitau, whom she said had been difficult to interact with in the past due to the prison barrier.

Gitau, serving 20 years of imprisonment since 2012 for defilement, couldn't hide his joy when he met his sister.

Dickson Oudo, 59, a convict serving 30 years for defilement, said he was able to learn about new developments at his Kisumu home.

"Have met my grandchildren for the first time. I am happy to have seen my daughter whom I left when she was seven but now is all grown up," he said.

Edward Kirindo, who is in charge of social welfare in the prisons, indicated that the day was special as inmates had been allowed to interact with their relatives and parents.

The families of over 400 convicts serving over five years sentences, the officer said, were accorded a chance to parent.