The Influence of Religious-based Programmes on Recidivism of Women Offenders in Kenyan Prisons

Abstract

The study, done between 2021 and 2024, sought to establish the impact of religious-based programmes on the recidivism of repeat female offenders in Kenyan prisons. The study aimed to determine the influence of religious-based programmes on recidivism. The study hypothesised that women repeat offenders' participation in religious-based rehabilitation programmes did not have a positive influence on recidivism trends. It was further hypothesised that participation in religious-based programmes did not prevent women convicts from criminal relapse. The study employed a descriptive survey research design. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected using questionnaires, in-depth interview guides, key informant guides and focus group discussions. Key informants were identified from prison officers who were purposefully selected. Out of a target population of 130 women inmates, a sample size of 48 respondents was selected and participated in the study. The snowball sampling technique was used to identify the appropriate respondents. Qualitative and quantitative data were analysed and presented in percentages, tables, and verbatim quotes. The study findings established that religious-based rehabilitation programmes had a significant impact on recidivism reduction trends among women repeat offenders. It further shows that participation in religious-based rehabilitation programmes helped repeat offenders desist from criminal relapse and helped to get rid of negative emotions such as depression and anger, enhancing the ability to acquire healthy, stable mental health. It is recommended that religious and spiritual liberty activities be enhanced in all women's correctional facilities to reduce recidivism rates among repeat female offenders since this would play a significant role in helping women convicts acquire emotional, psychological and mental healing, which is vital for their ability to desist from criminal relapse.

Keywords:  Homa Bay GoK women prison, recidivism, rehabilitation, religious-based programme, repeat offenders