Auditor General Nancy Gathungu has revealed dire conditions in Kenya's prisons, undermining major reforms introduced by former Vice President Moody Awori. The findings violate the Prisons Act of 2007 on housing, security, and health. The audit followed visits to 23 prisons between July and August 2025.
The 2024/25 audit report on the Prisons Department details many facilities with rusted and aged roofs. Staff live in substandard housing amid inmate overcrowding. High-risk prisoners lack proper walls and roofs, along with CCTV cameras and leaking structures.
The department received Sh38.15 billion for the 2025/26 fiscal year, up from Sh34.39 billion previously. The report states, “It is clear that the Prisons Department has violated the law in executing its mandate. This is because the foundations and buildings are in poor condition.”
For instance, at Nanyuki Prison, high-risk inmates lack roofs, and housing needs new floors, toilet repairs, and painting. At Meru Prison, 10 houses require new roofs, timber, and sheets, while 90 staff houses need repairs and foundation work.
These conditions affect both inmates and staff, including poorly prepared food.