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.