CBO donates food and other essentials to Kisumu inmates

Inmates at Kisumu Maximum Prison have benefited from a wellness programme, including mentorship talks sponsored by a Community Based Organisation (CBO) called Ubuntu.

The inmates also received food donations and other essentials, including rice, toiletries like bar soap and tissue paper, to boost their health and sanitation. 

Ubuntu Chief Executive Officer Ms Truphosa Atieno said they started the wellness programmes seven years ago. Ms Atieno said her plans to support the inmates begin in July every year when she sources funds and plans. 

Ms. Atieno said she stopped supporting women’s prisons after realising that they receive more donations and consider, unlike their male counterparts.

Ms Atieno said the Bible doctrines that ask Christians to visit those behind bars inspired her to start the programme.

Mr Gerald Ongume, the officer in charge of the Kisumu Maximum Prison, confirmed that Ms Atieno visited the inmates last January. 

Mr Ongume said the philanthropic visits are forms of reintegration that make the inmates feel appreciated by the outside world and psychologically, it makes them want to become better people. 

“Inmates are the most vulnerable group that we have in this society. All these people here require proper care, attention, and such philanthropic gesture. It is a form of rehabilitating them. When these donations reach them, they feel appreciated,” he said.