Kenya Has Lost A Rare Trailblazer, Says Matiangi Following The Death Of Commandant Wanini Keriri

NAIROBI, Kenya, May 31-Interior Cabinet Secretary Dr. Fred Matiangi says the country has lost a “rare trailblazer” following the sudden death of Commandant, Prisons Staff Training College, Ruiru, Margaret Wanini Keriri.

In a Tweet, Matiangi said the late Keriri embodied effective public service and who was an inspiration to many.

She will be remembered for bringing a human face to a then rigid prison department and more so during her tenure as the head of Kamiti prisons.

She initiated major reforms that even saw inmates being visited by their relatives in a more guided and conducive environment.

Commandant Wanini gift for transformative leadership is evident in the positive impact that she bequeathed workstations entrusted to her supervision and notably the Prisons Staff Training College, Ruiru, Matiangi said.

“As a successful scholar, writer, counsellor and trainer, Commandant Wanini touched and mentored many lives especially our future generations who saw in her the portrait of a rewarding and fulfilling work-life balance,” the CS added.

“I pray to God to grant her family, friends and colleagues the fortitude to bear the pain of losing their beloved mother, daughter, sister, auntie and mentor.”

Her death whose cause is still unknown was announced by the Kenya Prisons Commissioner-General John Warioba who described Ms Kireri as a gallant, dedicated selfless and committed officer.

“Her illustrious career saw her serve in the service in various capacities. On my own behalf and on behalf of the Kenya Prisons Service. I wish to convey my heartfelt condolences to the family and the Kenya Prisons fraternity as I join them at this moment of grief” he said in a statement.

Kireri a professional counsellor, lecturer and author will be remembered for steering reforms in the correctional facilities.