By Ncaba Ntshakala
During a recent tour of the Matsapha Correctional Centre, Prime Minister Russell Dlamini expressed admiration for the good spirits and overall well-being of the inmates.
The visit, conducted in the company of several high-ranking officials has been hailed for highlighting both the successes and the challenges faced by the correctional facility.
The Prime Minister was accompanied by the Minister of Justice & Constitutional Affairs HRH Prince Simelane, Principal Secretary Bertram Stewart, Principal Secretary and Under Secretary in the Ministry
Dorcas Dlamini and Gugu Nsibandze respectively, Commissioner General of His Majesty’s Correctional Services LaMakhosini Phindile Dlamini, along with the HMCS Executive and other senior officials.
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The Prime Minister and his entourage were briefed on the various programs offered at the centre. These include vocational training in carpentry, welding, sewing, and agriculture, which have been instrumental in rehabilitating inmates.
However, the delegation was also made aware of significant challenges such as inmate overcrowding, outdated infrastructure, high rates of recidivism, and a shortage of staff housing.
During his visit, Prime Minister Dlamini also toured the industries section and inmate holding cells.
He took the opportunity to interact with the inmates, encouraging them to reflect on their experiences and strive to reintegrate into society as responsible citizens.
In a statement following his visit, Prime Minister Russell Dlamini said, “We visited Matsapha Central Correctional Centre and the Correctional Staff College to determine the level of preparedness for the upcoming Correctional Services Day.
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While at the facility, we had the opportunity to interact with inmates and encouraged them to learn from their experiences and come out as responsible citizens.
We also toured the facility and appreciated the wonderful artisan work that the inmates do in carpentry, welding, sewing as well as in agriculture, among other skills. It was encouraging to also note the infrastructural development taking place at the facility.”
The visit comes ahead of the 16th Correctional Services Day, set to be held on August 2, 2024. The event, themed “Enhancing stakeholder relations for community corrections and social cohesion,” will include a passing-out parade at the staff training college in Matsapha, starting at 9 a.m.
A cohort of 289 trainees will take their oath of service in front of their Majesties, which will mark their official induction into His Majesty’s Correctional Services.
Moreover, Commissioner General LaMakhosini Phindile Dlamini has extended an invitation to parents, guardians, stakeholders, and the general public to attend the double celebration.
It has also been shared that the weather forecasts of the day are expected to be clear and warm, with temperatures ranging from 12 to 25 degrees Celsius.
