New York: Ghana has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to transforming its prison system from a punitive model to one focused on correction, care, and reintegration. This commitment was articulated by Mrs. Baffoe-Bonnie, the Director-General of Prisons, during her address to delegates from over 193 nations at the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly in the United States.
According to Ghana News Agency, the session, themed 'A Second Chance: Addressing the Global Prison Challenge,' was held to mark the 10th anniversary of the adoption of the United Nations Standard Minimum Rules, also known as the Nelson Mandela Rules. Mrs. Baffoe-Bonnie highlighted Ghana's alignment with international standards such as the Mandela, Bangkok, and Tokyo rules, emphasizing the opportunity to translate discussions into concrete actions for reforming prison systems.
Mrs. Baffoe-Bonnie detailed Ghana's dedication to improving infrastructure, staff training, international collaboration, healthcare, and agricultural mechanisation despite challenges. She noted that prison officers are undergoing continuous training in Human Rights, Conflict Resolution, and Correctional Ethics to manage the evolving correctional environment effectively.
She further mentioned the progress Ghana has made in separating inmates by gender and age, acknowledging infrastructure limitations as ongoing challenges. The Prison farms currently contribute 40 percent of the daily food rations for inmates, with plans to invest further in mechanised agriculture to meet national standards and provide vocational training.
The Director-General also stated that the Ghana Prisons Service offers both academic and skills-based education, with more than 700 inmates having participated in national examinations. Vocational training in carpentry, tailoring, welding, and aquaculture is also provided to aid lawful reintegration.
Ghana is working with UNODC to develop an inmate classification tool consistent with Mandela Rule 7 to enhance case management. The Government has renewed its support for refurbishing existing prisons, constructing modern facilities, and establishing a Prisons Industrial Hub for skills training and income generation.
Mrs. Baffoe-Bonnie pledged to improve welfare for officers and inmates, digitalise case management systems, expand structures, modernise the Prisons Service, mechanise agriculture, and foster strategic partnerships. She reiterated Ghana's conviction in rehabilitation over punishment, asserting that every individual deserves the opportunity to rebuild their life with dignity and purpose, and pledged continued collaboration with international partners to promote justice and uphold human rights.
