The Kamiti Youth Corrective Training Centre (Y.C.T.C.) joined the global community in honoring Nelson Mandela International Day through a vibrant, multifaceted event focused on environmental conservation, restorative justice, and youth empowerment.
The day commenced with an ambitious tree-planting initiative at Kamiti Primary School grounds, where over 650 indigenous trees were planted as part of the Centre’s commitment to greening and sustainability. The exercise was led by Superintendent Paul Kaburu, Officer-in-Charge of Y.C.T.C., and witnessed the participation of SSP Jacqueline Onyango, Superintendent-in-Charge of Kamae Girls’ Borstal Institution, schoolchildren from Kamiti Primary, and other key stakeholders. The Centre has set a goal of planting 1,500 trees, with the remaining expected to be planted in the course of the week.
During the official ceremony, SP Paul Kaburu delivered remarks on behalf of the Commissioner General of Prisons, reaffirming the Kenya Prisons Service’s dedication to the Mandela Rules—the UN Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners. He emphasized that juvenile rehabilitation must be anchored in dignity, education, and a strong belief in the potential for transformation.
Assistant Superintendent of Prisons Charity Irungu, Deputy Officer-in-Charge, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the critical role of youth-focused correctional programs and the Centre’s enduring mission to promote rehabilitation, reintegration, and long-term change among its young residents.
A key highlight of the celebration was the cultural and artistic showcase by the boys of Y.C.T.C., who captivated guests with performances in music, dance, and a powerful short play exploring the humane treatment of offenders. Their talent and message resonated deeply with attendees, earning accolades from various stakeholders.
Mr. Teddy Oracha, representing the KCB Foundation, commended the young performers and pledged continued support toward nurturing their talents, as part of the Foundation’s broader commitment to rehabilitation and empowerment.
Dignitaries in attendance included:
Mr. Vincent Rapando – Chandaria Foundation
Mr. Teddy Oracha – KCB Foundation
Ms. Caroline Odera & Mr. Vincent Ayako – Global Peace Foundation
Ms. Lydia – Imarisha Ulimwengu Initiative
Mr. Francis Kibathi – Pendekezo Letu
Madam Faith – President’s Fellowship Program
All partners present reaffirmed their commitment to collaborating with Y.C.T.C. to strengthen rehabilitation initiatives and enhance reintegration pathways for young offenders.
“We see promise in these youth. As a Foundation, we are committed to supporting sustainable rehabilitation initiatives,” said Mr. Vincent Rapando of the Chandaria Foundation.
“We aim to empower these clients with practical skills that will help them reintegrate into society and lead productive lives,” added Mr. Teddy Oracha of the KCB Foundation.
Beyond verbal pledges, stakeholders generously donated essential supplies including soaps and tissue paper to support the daily welfare of the boys and the operations of the Centre.
The day concluded with a communal lunch and a heartfelt vote of thanks. The event left guests inspired by the resilience, potential, and spirit of the youth—underscoring the collective resolve to continue advancing Mandela’s legacy.
As Nelson Mandela once said: “There can be no keener revelation of a society’s soul than the way in which it treats its children.”
Kamiti Youth Corrective Training Centre continues to embody this vision—restoring hope, dignity, and opportunity in the lives of Kenya’s future generation.
