Influence of Socioeconomic Factors on Recidivism in Kenya: A Case of Naivasha Maximum Security Prison in Nakuru County, Kenya

Purpose: This study aimed to invest the influence of socioeconomic factors on recidivism at Naivasha Maximum Security Prison in Nakuru county, Kenya. The study also sought to identify and recommend appropriate interventions to mitigate these factors and promote the successful reintegration of ex-offenders into society. Methodology: Guided by the strain theory first introduced by Robert K. Merton, the study employed a descriptive research design using a mixed methods approach to target 2,000 current inmates, 1,200 former inmates, and 350 prison staff. Using stratified random sampling technique, a sample of 355 participants was considered for the study. Additionally, key informants were selected purposively to include the Officer commanding the station, four Chaplains for all denominations (Catholic, SDA, Islam and protestant churches), five Prison administrators who are the section heads for tailoring section, carpentry section, mechanics section, formal education section and health/hospital facility section. Data was collected using two data collection tools; questionnaires for prison staff and inmates; interviews guide for key informants. Both quantitative and qualitative data was collected and analyzed. Findings: Findings revealed that strengthening family relationships and providing community support systems including mentorship programs and faith-based groups enhance successful reintegration and significantly reduces the likelihood of re-offending. Social stigma and limited access to employment post-release was found to be key drivers of recidivism. Lack of structured job placement programs for former inmates was found to lead to high unemployment rates, pushing some back into crime. Vocational training programs were found to be essential but require expansion, improvement and certification. The study supports strain theory and labeling theory, showing that economic hardship and social stigmatization are responsible for shaping post-release behavior among offenders. Unique Contribution to Theory, Policy and Practice: The government should implement structured family reunification programs to strengthen inmate-family bonds and community-based reintegration programs should be expanded to support former inmates and reduce social stigma. Prisons should collaborate with accredited vocational institutions to ensure inmates receive high-quality training. Certification of vocational training programs should be standardized to enhance inmates’ job competitiveness. Income-generating activities within the prison, such as carpentry and tailoring, should be expanded and inmates be allowed to save a portion of the income generated, which can act as seed capital upon their release. The government can provide seed capital or startup grants to rehabilitated inmates for small business ventures.