- Kenyatta University PhD candidate Regina Wango Kasau studied how Kamiti Maximum Prison’s built environment affects the mental health of inmates
- Her research found that overcrowding, poor lighting and high windows contributed to roughly 55% of the 250 surveyed inmates experiencing depression
- Kenyans praised the study, with officials at correctional facilities saying they would use her recommendations to modernise penal institutions
A Kenyatta University PhD candidate has sparked widespread admiration online after her research on how prison architecture affects inmates’ mental health at Kamiti Maximum Prison drew praise from Kenyans, including officials in the correctional services sector.
Source: Facebook
Regina Wango Kasau, a doctoral student at the School of Engineering and Architecture, investigated the relationship between the physical design of prisons and the psychological well-being of those held inside them.
Her study, supervised by Dr Christine Majale and Prof. Gerryshom Munala, focused specifically on Kamiti Maximum Prison in Nairobi County.
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What Kasau’s Research Found
Drawing on data collected from 250 inmates, Kasau’s findings paint a sobering picture. Overcrowded dormitories, restricted sightlines, inadequate natural light, and high-set windows were among the environmental factors she identified as key contributors to mental distress. Approximately 55% of the inmates surveyed reported experiencing depression, while 50% reported anxiety.
Her research argues that colonial-era, punitive prison designs are actively working against modern rehabilitation goals. She also highlighted a significant gap in inclusivity, noting that 56% of elderly inmates were particularly affected by these design shortcomings.
“If we want true rehabilitation, we must structurally design for it,” Kasau said, summarising the central call to action in her work.
Kenyans React to the Study
When Kenyatta University shared details of the research on Facebook on 3 July 2026, the response was immediate and largely enthusiastic, with several commenters drawing connections between the findings and broader debates about punishment versus rehabilitation in Kenya.
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@Koech Tembur: “Good insight, Arch. Regina. Glad to have played a part in your study! We will endeavour to incorporate your recommendations in the modernisation program of our penal facilities. Efforts are ongoing to have these facilities change from the name prisons to correctional facilities and also in terms of rehabilitation programs available within them to reflect these changes.”
@Albert Gichana: “The name ‘Prison’ is more inclined to Punishment than Rehabilitation. Change of design could mean rebranding the institution, i.e transitioning it to a rehabilitation organisation.”
@Gathungu Isaac: “That’s an excellent research topic. From the perspective of human dignity, prisons ought to be understood primarily as institutions of rehabilitation rather than mere instruments of punishment.”
@Anne Ntinyari Mwiti: “Well done, Reginah! Interesting study”
2 KU students celebrate finishing degress after 7 years
In other news, TUKO also shared details about two Kenyatta University graduates who celebrated completing their Bachelor of Education Science degrees after an extended seven-year journey.
They shared their future plans after graduation, which include getting a Master’s Degree.
Their story resonates with many, particularly as they reflect on the challenges faced during their studies, advocating that there is no rush in the pursuit of education.
Source: NGBREAKINGNEWS
