Impact of Prison Reforms on Inmates’ Right to Health: a Case Study of Kamiti Maximum Security Prison
Abstract
This study investigated the impact of prison reforms on inmates’ right to health. The
study was based at Kamiti Maximum Security Prison. The main objectives of the
research were; to assess the adequacy of health infrastructure at Kamiti Maximum
Security Prison, establish how prison authorities comply with various instruments on
inmates rights to health, examine the role of non state actors in the promotion of
inmates’ right to health and establish policy options for efficient promotion and
protection of inmates’ right to health. The implementation of prison reforms is
basically a response to extreme violations of human rights of those serving custodial
sentences. As observed by Coyle, (2012), reports indicate several abuses on inmates
including; flagrant denial of sick inmates access health services, violent and
sometimes fatal assaults on inmates, poor hygiene and sanitary conditions in prisons;
serving of poor quality food and general overcrowding of inmates in accommodation
wards. This literature establishes the grounding upon which health services should
be delivered to inmates. Data of the study was collected from primary and secondary
sources using observation, questionnaires and interview schedules. A total of 183
respondents, who included inmates, correctional practitioners and experts were
sampled for interviews. The information collected was analyzed using qualitative
and quantitative techniques. The study found out that Kenya Prison Service has
engaged in partnerships which has greatly improved inmates’ right to health through
funding and health infrastructural development. The study concluded that prison
reforms have had positive impacts on inmates’ right to health.
Citation
Master of Arts in Human RightsPublisher
University of Nairobi