Kumasi: Deputy Director of Prisons, Hannah Hilda Ewoame, the Officer-In-Charge of the Manhyia Local Prison, has urged the public to refrain from stigmatizing ex-convicts and support their reintegration into society. She emphasized that such support could enhance their self-esteem and motivate them to engage in productive activities rather than returning to previous behaviors that led to their incarceration.
According to Ghana News Agency, DDP Ewoame expressed her concerns during an interview at the Manhyia Local Prison, where she observed the rehabilitation process involving skills development for inmates. She highlighted the societal tendency to disregard the efforts of ex-convicts, which often forces them back into criminal activities, potentially leading to re-arrest.
DDP Ewoame shared experiences of meeting several discharged inmates who, despite having acquired skills to start their businesses, found themselves unemployed because society refused to engage with their work. This lack of support extends to families of ex-convicts, who sometimes deny financial assistance necessary for starting businesses based on the skills learned while in prison.
She strongly encouraged both families and the broader public to aid in the reintegration of ex-convicts, urging them to recognize these individuals as renewed and prepared to begin anew. At present, the Manhyia Local Prison houses 165 inmates engaged in various skill-building activities, including tailoring, shoemaking, beading, Kente weaving, electronic repairs, and farming.
The prison has attracted orders from civilians and security personnel for products crafted by both inmates and officers, with an emphasis on quality craftsmanship. DDP Ewoame affirmed their readiness to accept contracts from individuals and institutions for a range of services, including clothing, uniform production, and appliance repairs. These contracts play a vital role in generating funds for inmates' welfare and providing necessary resources for the prison.
The Ghana Prisons Service is tasked with ensuring the safe custody, welfare, reformation, rehabilitation, and reintegration of inmates, aiming to facilitate a smoother transition back into society.
