This archive report was first published on 19 August 2019.
On August 19, 2019, Standard Digital published Cyprine Omollo's story of financial crisis, debt, and imprisonment.
Omollo's journey began in 2013 when she found herself in a financial crisis due to her husband's heart condition and a business partner who conned her out of over Sh 300,000. Despite having a good job as an animal technician, she struggled to pay off her debts and was eventually arrested for failing to settle a debt of Sh 100,000.
Omollo spent six months in remand prison, where she faced challenges such as depression and the stigma of being an ex-convict. However, she found solace in singing and volunteering her help at organisations that rehabilitate prisoners.
After her release, Omollo struggled to find employment due to her past imprisonment. However, she eventually found a new purpose in life when she met Teresa Njoroge, one of the founders of Clean Start Kenya, an organisation that helps women and girls transition back into society after prison or juvenile detention.
Omollo is now the head coach at Clean Start, where she empowers women and girls in prison to restore their self-confidence and have a smoother transition once they're released. She also trains prison officers on how to handle inmates and facilitate their rehabilitation.
Omollo's story serves as a reminder that people who have been in prison deserve a second chance and should not be judged based on their past mistakes.
