Prison facing lack of medicine, manpower

THE lack of medicine and staff are challenges faced by Buimo Correctional Service inmates, warders and their families, says prison commander Chief Supt Michael Wundia.
He said the number of medical staff was not enough to look after the prison population and Coronavirus (Covid-19) patients.
“It has been a challenge and I’m using one person from the four officers I have to work on the Covid-19 cases,” Chief Supt Wundia said.
“Of the remaining three, one is responsible for tuberculosis (TB) cases in the prison.
“There’s a lot of TB cases in Buimo.
“Two officers are looking at other general sicknesses and patients.”
He said medical drugs were badly needed.
“We have nothing now,” he said.
Chief Supt Wundia said they had TB patients and those suffering other diseases.
“Every time people come to get treatment, they are sent back because there’s no medicine.
“Prisoners and officers are frustrated.
“The medical officers cannot do anything as they have nothing to offer.
“We need additional staff to boost manpower here – probably a medical officer at the level of a health extension officer and a doctor.”
The prison usually get its monthly supply from the Buimo Health Centre, but the supplies usually run out after a week.
“Some of these issues are making prisoners try to escape from custody,” he said.