Rehabilitating offenders through reforestation efforts

Kapsowar, Thursday, May 18, 2023

KNA by Rennish Okong’o

In a move aimed at both rehabilitating offenders and promoting environmental conservation, the Probation Department in Marakwet West Sub County has been urged to join forces with the Kenya Forest Service (KFS).

The collaboration seeks to harness the potential of offenders in the rehabilitation process and facilitate skills transfer. During the recent Community Service Order (CSO) case committee meeting held at Kapsowar, Jumbale Chibanza, acting Marakwet West Deputy County Commissioner, an advocate for the initiative, emphasized the importance of assigning more offenders to KFS offices. By doing so, they can contribute to the production of seedlings, subsequently aiding in the restoration of forest cover.

Chibanza stressed that aligning with the government's ambitious agenda of planting 15 billion trees would greatly benefit from the involvement of these offenders. Rather than assigning them to menial tasks in the chief's offices, Chibanza suggested channeling their efforts toward tree planting.

This approach not only promote reforestation but also provide valuable skills transfer to the offenders. By actively participating in seedling preparation and tree planting activities, individuals undergoing rehabilitation can grasp the significance of tree planting, leading to a reduction in deforestation rates.

Moreover, once offenders have completed their terms and the learning process at forest stations, they will be equipped to establish their own tree nurseries. This empowering opportunity allows them to generate income by selling seedling

Mr. David Barasa, the North Rift Regional Director of Probation, highlighted the broader benefits of this collaborative effort. Offenders are sent to public agencies to engage in unpaid public work, benefiting both the community and the individuals involved. Planting trees not only saves the environment but also contributes to social forestry, enabling offenders to develop sustainable practices for their future benefit and profit.

Barasa emphasized the importance of close cooperation between probation officers and the courts to ensure a steady flow of referrals. By working hand-in-hand, they can identify suitable candidates for participation in the rehabilitation programme.

Barasa further advocated for stricter punishments for those responsible for extensive deforestation. Sentencing perpetrators to jail terms or imposing hefty fines would make them more aware of the consequences of their actions, beyond just serving a Community Service Order.

To demonstrate their commitment to the cause, the committee initiated a tree-planting campaign during the meeting with 100 seedlings planted at Moi Kapsowar Girls, and this endeavor will continue during each subsequent meeting. By targeting areas with low tree cover around Kapsowar, the committee aims to rejuvenate the region and contribute to the larger goal of environmental conservation set forth by the government.

The collaborative efforts between the Probation Department and the Kenya Forest Service showcase will be a progressive approach to offender rehabilitation and environmental conservation. By harnessing the potential of offenders and imparting valuable skills, this initiative sets the stage for positive change. The seedlings planted today hold the promise of a greener and more sustainable future, where both individuals and the environment can thrive.

Courtesy; K.N.A