The Minister for the Interior, Mr. Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, paid a working visit to Nsawam Prison in the Eastern Region to familiarize himself and assess operations.
Speaking during his visit on Monday, he reiterated his commitment to supporting the Ghana Prisons Service, emphasizing that his dedication to the Service aligns with fulfilling the President’s agenda in the security sector.
“I promised that the Ghana Prisons Service will no longer be an orphan. My duty is not only to sit in the office and read reports but also to go out and see what is happening on the ground, so I can make informed decisions to improve the situation”, he said.
Mr. Muntaka noted that since assuming office, he has championed the Service’s cause and is pleased that his efforts are beginning to yield positive results.
He cited the donation of 15 pick-ups, two buses, and a Toyota Land Cruiser as examples of improved service delivery and also informed prison authorities that the Community Service Bill is currently before Cabinet for consideration.
“The Bill is expected to provide an alternative to custodial sentences, allowing offenders to serve their sentences in the community while being rehabilitated and reintegrated into society”, he added.
He further stated that he is working to encourage the establishment of businesses within the prison, which will provide inmates with skills and training to aid their rehabilitation and reintegration upon release.
The Minister thanked the prison authorities and staff for their dedication and sacrifices, urging them not to relent in their efforts, assureing them that the government remains committed to addressing their challenges and encouraged them to stay focused until these challenges are solved.
The Minister also inspected various projects carried out by the prison authorities, including a farm project which he was particularly impressed with, despite the challenges faced by the prison authorities, carpentry shop, tailoring shop, paper machine shop, the 800-capacity Prison Remand Project, and the clinic.
Judith Twumwaa, ISD
