Empowering Second Chances: The Journey of Philip Bor

Background

On May 20, 2024, we visited Philip Bor at his rural home in Cheple Village, Kericho, following his release from prison. In 1988,Mr. Bor had been recouping from a severe case of cerebral malaria for which he had obtained treatment. As he was resting, and deep in sleep, a neighbor woke him from his slumber, and being startled, he hit the neighbour, whereby he later succumbed. He was found ‘guilty and insane’ and detained at the President’s pleasure for over 36 years, spanning the tenures of four (4) presidents.

Purpose of the Visit

The visit aimed to follow up with Philip Bor post-release and to facilitate a media feature on his story with NTV (Nation Media Group). This report details the activities, observations, and outcomes of the visit.

Reception

We received a warm welcome from Bor and his family. Bor expressed deep gratitude for the support he has received and showed great enthusiasm for his plans to reintegrate into the community. The NTV crew conducted an in-depth interview with Bor, who openly shared his story. They also interviewed his mother, sister, brother, friends, and primary school teacher, capturing a comprehensive narrative of his journey.

Discussion Points

1. Housing and living conditions
2. Immediate and long-term needs
3. Support from family and community

Key Observations

Bor has been well-accepted by the community and has substantial support from his family. His brother is currently providing for his basic needs, and the family has allocated land for Bor to build his own home. The strong support from his mother, sister, and brother was evident, as was the community’s willingness to help him rebuild his life.

Future Plans and Aspirations

Bor is highly motivated to achieve his goals, including starting a business and becoming an ambassador against crime. He is also committed to finding a wife and starting a family. His upholstery skills, learned in prison, will be useful in earning a living.

Housing Support

Bor needs resources and guidance from well-wishers to help him build his home on a piece of land allocated to him by his family members.

Business Development

Bor requires support to plan his business and access funding or micro-loans to start his upholstery business.

Community Reintegration

Further community engagement activities are needed to strengthen Bor’s reintegration and to utilize his ambassadorial role to campaign against crime.

Substance Abuse Awareness

While the community reception was positive, some individuals smelled of alcohol, indicating potential substance abuse issues. Community-wide interventions addressing substance abuse are recommended to ensure a supportive environment for Bor and others. Collaboration with local organizations, local administration and the faith-based organizations can help mitigate such vices.

Monitoring and Follow-up

CELSIR will schedule regular follow-up visits and calls to monitor Bor’s progress and address any emerging needs.

Conclusion

The visit to Bor was successful in documenting his story and assessing his immediate and future needs. NTV’s coverage will raise awareness about the challenges faced by individuals transitioning from incarceration to community life. CELSIR remains committed to supporting Bor and others like him in their journey towards rehabilitation and reintegration.

To view the NTV 12 minute feature on Bor’s reintegration story, follow this link https://ntvkenya.co.ke/12-minutes/life-after-prison-the-story-of-philip-bor-12-minutes/

By Anne Munyua,

info@celsir-africa.org | annemunyua@omg.co.ke | (https://twitter.com/MurugiMunyua)

Executive Director

Center for Legal Support and Inmate Rehabilitation (CELSIR)