Zikhale N'goma reafilms commitment to prison reform

By Michael Martin//Malawi

Minister of Homeland Security Ken Zikhale Ng’oma has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to addressing the challenges faced by prisoners in Malawi.

Speaking during his visit to Maula Prison in Lilongwe, Ng’oma inspected rehabilitation programs and engaged with inmates.

He announced that the government is revising the Prisons Bill of 1956 and introducing a new Correctional Services Bill.

“The new bill aims to alleviate overcrowding issues in prisons by implementing a parole system and allowing community service for minor offenses.”

He said this is a significant step, considering that Maula Prison, for instance, was built to hold 500 prisoners but currently houses over 3,000 inmates.

Ng’oma also encouraged inmates to participate in the ongoing voter registration process, emphasizing their right to vote in next year’s general elections.

To show his support, the minister donated K5 million from his personal savings, along with bars of soap to be distributed among the inmates.

Malawi’s prisons have long faced challenges, including overcrowding, poor sanitation, and inadequate food and medical care.

The government’s commitment to addressing these issues is a welcome development, and the introduction of the new Correctional Services Bill is a significant step towards improving the lives of prisoners in Malawi.