Prof. Jostinah Wawasi Mwang’ombe (SSP), OGW, M.Econ, SGBV-I stands as a distinguished leader in the fields of Gender, Human Rights, and Correctional Reform. With a career spanning over two decades, she has become a global voice advocating for human dignity, juvenile justice, and gender-sensitive approaches within correctional systems and beyond. Her expertise is firmly rooted in her roles as Professor in Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Instructors Training at the Federation of International Gender and Human Rights (FIGHR) and Harbor Heritage University (HHU-USA), Senior Superintendent of Prisons in Kenya with leadership roles in juvenile facilities (Kamae Girls and Shimo Boys Borstal Institutions), and an International Human Rights Subject Matter Expert with the International Institute for Justice and the Rule of Law (IIJ-Malta), a GCTF-inspired institution, and the International Peace Support Training Centre (IPSTC-Kenya).

Prof. Mwang’ombe has pioneered innovative gender-responsive rehabilitation initiatives, including the establishment of prison-based ECDE, Daycare centers and mother-baby safe spaces for incarcerated mothers. She developed holistic, trauma-informed, and rights-based correctional models such as the “Juvenile Correction Model” and the “Through Care Women Correction Model.” Her leadership at institutions like Machakos, Busia, Wundanyi Women Prisons, and Borstal Institutions has shaped policies upholding the dignity of vulnerable populations, particularly children and women in detention. Her contributions extend beyond Kenya, with impactful capacity-building in Malta, Zimbabwe, Burkina Faso, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, all guided by international standards including the UN Bangkok, Havana, Beijing, Tokyo, and Mandela Rules.

Holding advanced degrees in Economics, her scholarly work reflects a strong commitment to human rights, gender equality, and justice reform. Her research explores the intersections of gender, trade, employment, and social justice across Africa. As an author, she uses her writing to influence policy and practice, having published influential books and peer-reviewed articles that inspire change locally and globally. Known for her compassionate approach and accessible speaking style, Prof. Mwang’ombe brings clarity to complex issues and inspires diverse audiences.

Her advocacy and leadership have earned her prestigious recognitions including the Order of the Grand Warrior (OGW), International Peace Award Winner 2025, Distinguished and Outstanding Correction Officer (Overall Principal Secretary Award) Winner 2025, Woman Driver of Peace and Innovation in Countering Violent Extremism, African Woman Empowerment Champion, UN Peacekeeper Service Medal, Prison Reforms Trailblazer Award, Best Woman in Leadership Award, Community Human Rights Champion and NCIC Peace Champion. She is the author of motivational books such as The Steel Symphony, Unleashing Her Potential, The Woman at the Centre, Transforming Juvenile Justice and My Web—works that bridge the gap between policy and practice in gender and correctional reform. Looking ahead, she aims to expand her global influence through research, collaboration, and policy advisory roles, driven by her belief in the transformative power of human rights-based approaches and the vision to uplift the most vulnerable in society.