Isiolo County Government, in collaboration with development partners, civil society organizations, and community members, marked International Women’s Day 2025 at Isiolo GK Prison, underscoring the importance of women’s well-being and empowerment.
The event, organized by the Department of Gender, Culture, and Social Services, focused on this year’s theme, “Advocating for Women and Health.”
Health and Well-being at the Forefront
As part of the celebrations, women inmates benefited from free health screenings conducted by county health officers.
This initiative aimed to address the unique healthcare challenges faced by incarcerated women, ensuring they receive essential medical attention and support.
Environmental Sustainability and Child Welfare
The day commenced with a tree-planting exercise within the prison compound, symbolizing environmental conservation and future sustainability.
Notably, the trees were planted near a designated area for the construction of a nursery for children accompanying their incarcerated mothers.
This initiative seeks to provide a more nurturing environment for these children, ensuring they have access to play and learning opportunities outside the confines of prison life.
Lydia Mwangi, the Officer-in-Charge of Women at Isiolo GK Prison, expressed gratitude for the event, emphasizing its significance.
“I highly appreciate the County Government of Isiolo for organizing this activity within our premises. Today, women inmates have had the pleasure of freely interacting with you.” Mwangi stated.
“The tree-planting aligns with the presidential directive to increase forest cover, and we also hope the trees will create a favorable environment for the children who stay with their mothers in prison,” she added.
Equipping Women for a Better Future
Beyond healthcare and environmental conservation, the event highlighted the prison’s ongoing rehabilitation programs.
Women inmates are being equipped with practical skills such as dressmaking, tailoring, weaving, beadwork, hairdressing, farming, and formal education.
These programs are designed to empower the women, making them self-reliant and enabling them to contribute to economic growth upon their release.
Addressing Gender-Based Issues
The event also served as a platform to raise awareness on pressing gender-related challenges.
Abrahim Mwangi from Anglican Development Services reiterated their commitment to combating early marriages in Isiolo County.
“As development partners, we are dedicated to working closely with the County Government to fight against early marriages. Statistics indicate that about 17% of underage girls experience unwanted pregnancies, and 66% have faced different forms of gender-based violence,” he stated.
His sentiments were echoed by Nahashon Lotaruk from the National Gender and Equality Commission, who emphasized the importance of continued collaboration in addressing gender-based issues.
Community Support and Recognition
Inmates received essential items such as lessos, dignity kits, and personal hygiene products like soap and tissues, donated by development partners and the Office of the First Lady, Habiba Galgalo.
The event also featured recreational activities, including jigs and page-making, fostering a sense of community among the inmates.
Isiolo County Gender Officer, Abdirizak Guyo, expressed gratitude to religious leaders, individuals, and development partners for their contributions to the success of the event.
In recognition of their ongoing efforts in advocating for women’s issues, some development partners were honored with certificates from the Isiolo County Government.
Looking Ahead…
The commemoration of International Women’s Day at Isiolo GK Prison served as a reminder of the need for inclusive development and rehabilitation programs that cater to marginalized groups.
Through strategic partnerships and community-driven initiatives, the event demonstrated a commitment to improving the lives of women behind bars, ensuring they leave prison with the skills and support necessary for a brighter future.
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