The Challenges of Life after Imprisonment A Study of Ex-prisoners in Nairobi

Abstract

This study explored the challenges which ex-prisoners encounter or leaving prison and the strategies that they adopt in order to cope. The study sought the views of not only ex-prisoners, but also other parties concerned with life after imprisonment. Information was collected from 60 ex-prisoners, selected prison officers community members and administrators of five voluntary organizations that assist ex-prisoners to reintegrate into society. Respondents were selected through purposive sampling, with ex-prisoners recruited int the sample mainly through the snowball method. Data was collecte through a semi-structured questionnaire for the ex-prisoners, a question guide for focus groups and interview guides for the prison officers community members and administrators of the organizations assistin ex-prisoners. The study found out that ex-prisoners generally live in poverty and lac employment opportunities. A number of them were experiencin physical and psychological illnesses; some had to move from the residences for reasons connected mainly with imprisonment. Above al most of the exp-prisoners face rejection from families, society an government, and are thus excluded from life's opportunities. The e prisoners cope with poverty through casual low-paying jobs or seekin assistance from family and friends or from the few institutions willin to assist them. Some ex-prisoners cope by isolating themselves an withdrawing from society, while others try to ignore the realities rejection; some take refuge in salvation and the church. Sadly, a numb of ex-inmates re-offend and return to prison. The ex-prisoners yearn to be accepted and to be given assistance to enab them to reconstruct their lives. Many of them are optimistic that wit initial help, they can lead successful lives. The study makes a number recommendations that would help mitigate the challenges ex-prisone 90 Abstracts encounter upon release. The government, non-government organizations, the church, society and individuals should all join hands and advocate acceptance and non-discrimination of ex-prisoners. These organizations should provide half-way houses where they are accommodated temporarily before joining their families. Further they should provide seed capital, training and counseling to help them reintegrate successfully. 2