SHIMO LA TEWA MEN’S & WOMEN’S JUSTICE CENTRE
About Shimo La Tewa Prison Justice Center
The two Prison Justice Centres were launched on 20th March 2014 after a one-week training at the Shimo La Tewa Men’s and Women’s Prison premises from the 15th to 20th March 2014. 30 inmates and 5 prison warders from Kodiaga Prison were empowered with legal education on, Basics of Paralegalism, Introduction to Human Rights and Bill of Rights, Criminal Procedure Code Cap 75 Laws of Kenya, Powers of the Judiciary, Bail and Bond Guidelines, Trial procedures before Subordinate and High Court, Sentencing policy and Execution of judgments, Appeals process in the Lower courts and High court, Self-representation in criminal matters, Power of Mercy Act, The Prisons Act and Community Service Order and Provisions relating to criminal investigations and mode of taking and recording evidence during the trial.
The trained inmates and warders have been able to offer free legal aid services to other inmates and more than 5,000 inmates have since been released. The benefits accruing from the establishment and training of prison justice centres extend beyond individual cases to include general communal and societal benefits such asspeedy processing of cases; fair and impartial trials; and the reduction of prison populations while ensuring that justice is fair and accessible.
The trained inmates and warders have been able to offer free legal aid services to other inmates and more than 5,000 inmates have since been released. The benefits accruing from the establishment and training of prison justice centres extend beyond individual cases to include general communal and societal benefits such asspeedy processing of cases; fair and impartial trials; and the reduction of prison populations while ensuring that justice is fair and accessible.
Brief background of the Organization
Vihiga Community Justice Centre also known as Ebusiratsi Welfare and Development Association (EWADA) is a Community based organization located in Vihiga County. The organization brings together committed individuals from various civil society organizations, with various skills and experiences from diverse backgrounds.
It was registered as a Community Based Organization under section 10 of the societies act at the registrar of societies attorney general’s office on 8th July 2009.
The organization was formed as a result of the need to have well-informed and organized citizens and for equipping citizens with skills to effectively participate and engage in Human rights issues, governance and access to justice.
The organization has participated in many key activities and has been a key factor in promoting civic knowledge and enhancing good governance. It has a secretariat that runs the day-to-day activities and reports to the Management Board. The organization has established has extensive networks Vihiga county.