The government has increased the daily feeding allowance for prison inmates in Ghana from GH¢1.80 to GH¢5, according to Ghana Prisons Service Director-General, Mrs Patience Baffoe-Bonnie.
She announced the increase when she appeared before Parliament’s Public Accounts Committee (PAC), where she appealed to lawmakers, charitable organisations and other stakeholders to provide additional support to improve the welfare of prisoners.
Ghana Prisons Service Seeks Support for Inmate Rehabilitation
Mrs Baffoe-Bonnie commended the Pentecost Church for supporting prison facilities at Ejura in the Ashanti Region and Damongo in the Savannah Region.
She also urged civil society organisations and other institutions to engage inmates in productive activities that would help them acquire vocational skills, generate income and develop discipline before returning to society.
According to the Prisons Service Director-General, Ghana currently operates 45 prison facilities, with inmate rehabilitation and reintegration programmes now included in the government’s budget.
She further highlighted security measures implemented across the facilities, including routine searches and the monitoring of inmates to maintain order and safety.
Think Prisons 360 Programme Receives Commendation
The Public Accounts Committee praised the Director-General for initiatives under the Think Prisons 360 programme, which focuses on inmate rehabilitation, agricultural development and improved staff welfare.
The programme seeks to strengthen prison management while creating opportunities for inmates to develop practical skills and prepare for successful reintegration into society.
The increase in the feeding grant comes amid calls for improved prison conditions, better nutrition and stronger partnerships between government agencies, religious organisations and civil society groups.
Source: newsthemegh.com