Nairobi — An inmate at Kodiaga Womens' Prisons feeds chicken during the launch of Kenchic Poultry Project on Wednesday. Kenchic has donated 300 chicks to the prison and has also been training the inmates on poultry management. Picture by Titus Munala

The Kenya Prisons Service has teamed up with the private sector to raise revenue and equip inmates with skills through business.

Vice-President Mr Moody Awori says the move would bring additional funds and lead to enhanced skills and training inmates.

"We plan to increase the generation of additional funds through commercial ventures, which will also serve as opportunities for skills upgrading and training," said Awori.

The VP said in a speech read by Kisumu DC, Mr Jamleck Baruga, at the Kodiaga Prison, Kisumu, during the launch of a pilot Kenchic poultry project.

Last week, Awori launched The Kenya Prisons Service Charter and Strategic Plan for 2005-2009, which sets out a five-year plan that will change the face of prisons.

The ambitious reform plan will cost Sh70 billion.

Awori said the inmates will be equipped with chicken rearing skills.

"They will use the skills after completing their jail terms," said Awori.

He said the new venture will see the private sector play a role in making prison reforms succeed.

Kenchic Marketing Manager, Mr Anthony Wainaina, said they had donated 300 one-day old broilers and chick feed to the facility.

Eleven inmates have been trained. An inmate, Madeline Akoth who is serving a 10-year jail term, said she was enthusiastic about the project.

"When I will be released, I plan to start poultry rearing and erase my ugly past," said Akoth.

Kenchic Kisumu Depot manager, Dr Calvin K'Odongo, said they had chosen Akoth to train other inmates due to her lengthy term.