Kenya Partners with EU and UNODC to Modernize Nairobi Prison Operations via Hybrid Solar Project
NAIROBI, Kenya, July 6 – The Government of Kenya, in collaboration with the European Union and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), has officially commissioned a state-of-art hybrid solar power installation at the Nairobi Remand and Allocation Maximum Security Prison.
Spearheaded under the PLEAD Programme, the green energy initiative marks a defining milestone in modernizing Kenya’s correctional infrastructure, securing a 24-hour uninterrupted power for critical prison operations and essential virtual judicial proceedings.
Cabinet Secretary for Energy and Petroleum, Hon. Opiyo Wandayi while presiding over the commissioning reaffirmed government unwavering commitment to building a modern, secure, efficient and environmentally sustainable correctional system that responds to the aspirations of the country.
He appreciated the European Union for its steadfast partnership with the Government of Kenya, and to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime through the PLEAD Programme for successfully implementing the transformative intervention.
Opiyo noted that the strategic investment demonstrates the power of international cooperation in strengthening justice institutions while advancing sustainable development.
“Today’s commissioning is far more than the launch of a solar powerinstallation. It represents our robust commitment to ensuring that justice never stops, that public institutions remain resilient, and that correctional facilities become centres of innovation, rehabilitation and excellence”, He said.
He noted that the Government remains committed to delivering accessible, efficient and people-centred justice highlighting that Correctional facilities today perform functions that extend well beyond custodial management, they are centres of rehabilitation, vocational training, education, healthcare and restorative justice.
“As Government, we are therefore investing in correctional institutions that are environmentally responsible and responsive to the evolving needs of our citizenry”.
“I commend the State Department for Correctional Services, under the leadership of Dr. Salome Beacco, for embracing innovation and forging multi-sectoral partnerships that continue to transform correctional services in our country”.
Prior to this intervention, Nairobi Remand and Allocation Prison experienced frequent power outages that disrupted virtual court proceedings several times every week.
Yet this institution supports between 200 and 500 virtual court sessions every day, serving courts across the country, including Makadara, Milimani, Kiambu, Kibera, Ngong, Thika, Kisumu and even Mombasa. Without reliable electricity, justice was delayed, court proceedings were interrupted, and essential digital systems became inoperabl, the resulting shutdown of water pumps further threatened sanitation and daily institutional operations.
The newly installed 28.08-kilowatt peak hybrid solar power system, complete with battery storage, inverter chargers, backup generator rehabilitation, automated switching systems and energy-efficient lighting, now provides uninterrupted power to critical operational areas of this institution.
This investment strengthens security, protects essential prison operations, boosts staff productivity, and enhances inmate welfare, More importantly, it guarantees continuity in the administration of justice because, as Peter Drucker observed,
“Efficiency is doing things right; effectiveness is doing the right things, this project delivers both”. One of the most impressive achievements of this project has been its direct contribution to improving access to justice.
Since its completion, virtual hearings have become significantly more reliable with Hundreds of mentions, hearings, rulings, appeals and bail applications are now conducted seamlessly every day without unnecessary adjournments that previously used to be caused by power outages.
The benefits are clear: reduced case backlogs, lower transportation costs, enhanced security, greater court efficiency and more effective use of public resources.
The initiative protects the constitutional rights of accused persons by enabling timely access to justice. It is a practical solution with a profound impact on the administration of justice.
The project also demonstrates Kenya’s unwavering commitment to climate action and transition towards renewable energy within public institutions supports our national climate commitments while reducing operational costs.
Already, electricity expenditure at this facility has reduced significantly following installation of the solar plant, generating savings that can be redirected towards rehabilitation programmes.
Sustainability is no longer an option; it is a necessity the investment goes beyond powering our facilities; it strengthens energy security, advances environmental stewardship, and demonstrates our commitment to building a cleaner, more resilient future for generations to come.
CS Opiyo further encouraged all correctional institutions to embrace renewable energy pursuant to our national agenda for green growth and climate resilience.
“I am equally encouraged that this project incorporates sustainability measures through staff training, structured maintenance plans and contractor support during the defects notification period”.
“Such forward planning ensures that these investments continue delivering value long into the future”.
The achievement is a significant step forward, but it is not the destination. Sustained investment in virtual court infrastructure, renewable energy, integrated security systems, high-speed connectivity, and modern ICT solutions remains essential to realizing a fully digital, secure and efficient correctional service.
“I therefore urge our esteemed partners, the European Union and the UNODC PLEAD Programme, to continue supporting this shared vision as we accelerate the modernization of correctional infrastructure and strengthen the administration of justice throughout Kenya”.
Further, He commended the officers of the State Department for Correctional Services whose professionalism and dedication continue to uphold public safety while supporting offender rehabilitation under often challenging circumstances.
“As Government, we reaffirm our commitment to strengthening strategic partnerships that accelerate reforms across the justice sector and contribute to national development”.
