Western and Nyanza Update - October 11

Western and Nyanza Regions – Patrick Shiloh

Our work in these regions was amazing and brought unique experiences. God who owns heaven and earth appointed us and sent us to these areas so that He may prove His majestic deeds to the oppressed.

Counselling Programs

Counselling sessions here are done in two phases: individual counselling; and group counselling.

Individual Counselling

This was the most challenging session i.e. dealing with unique/difficult cases like murder, stress management, depression, fear, family separation and abandonment.

Group counselling

These sessions deal with the experiences that might hinder the reintegration of ex-prisoners. Name branding, mistaken identity, and being considered an outcast are some of the fears of these inmates and all need proper and mature handling to enable them to gain self-esteem.

General Progams

On Saturday 2 July 2011 we visited Busia Prison. The duty officer welcomed us and made all the arrangements for our fellowship with prisoners.  On Thursday 7 July 2011 we had a fellowship at Kakamega womens’ prison.  On 16 July 2011, we visited Kakamega main prison. This was a four member team led by Mrs. Muleli. The prison authority received us well and we had a wonderful afternoon with inmates. On 24 September 2011 the team went again to Busia Prison.

We also went to schools and colleges with ex-prisoners to share with younger students on the consequences of being involved in crime.

Prison Life Groups

We have weekly classes on Tuesdays at 10am in Kakamega Women’s Prison, and Mondays at 2pm at Borstal Kakamega.

Ex-Prisoner Rehabilitation

We have conducted monthly ex-prisoners’ fellowship meetings at the probation offices at Hamisi.

I have made several visits to ex-prisoners’ homes and have had family fellowships which are helping us to know the clients better and work on reconciliation issues. We are working with some local churches e.g. Chavakali Joy Celebration Centre and Abundant Church Kaimosi.

Relationship Building

We have also visited Kisumu main prison and Probation offices; the Kakamega Courts; the local churches and some prison officers’ homes.

Challenges

Our main challenges are: transport costs, a camera; materials and costs of compiling reports; computers; and office space.

Partnerships

We are developing a number of successful partnerships: Pastor Achanga of Chavakali Joy Celebration Centre; Pastor Walter Mido of Life Abundant Church Cheptulu; and Madam Pamvilas.

Future Goals

Have a carpentry workshop for ex-prisoners and a farm to plant crops and work in monthly.