Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs Prince Simelane has reported that the country’s correctional facilities remain overcrowded and in a dilapidated state, adding that the cramped conditions could easily facilitate the spread of airborne diseases should an outbreak occur.
Reporting to His Majesty King Mswati III during the Correctional Services Day celebrations held at His Majesty Correctional Services Staff College yesterday, Prince Simelane said the correctional system continued to face a number of challenges, chief among them being inadequate infrastructure and a shortage of correctional officers.
He said the shortage of officers was a matter of concern, describing correctional officers as ‘the fence of the country’ and emphasising that they were critical to maintaining safety and security within correctional institutions.
The minister further reported a shortage of staff housing for correctional officers, saying this remained one of the issues requiring urgent attention.
Despite these challenges, Prince Simelane expressed gratitude for the peace prevailing in the country, noting that national events such as the Correctional Services Day were possible because of the stability enjoyed by the country.
He also thanked Their Majesties for gracing the occasion despite their demanding national responsibilities.
Prince Simelane acknowledged the presence of delegates from Zimbabwe, Zambia, Namibia and Mozambique, saying their attendance reflected the strong relations HMCS continued to enjoy with counterparts in the region.
The minister noted that this year marks 31 years since His Majesty King Mswati III transformed the institution from a prison service into a correctional service, reflecting a shift from punishment to rehabilitation.
He said offenders were now equipped with practical skills, including farming and vocational training, to help them reintegrate into society upon release.
Educational opportunities had also been introduced to allow offenders who left school due to incarceration to continue their studies.
In addition, Prince Simelane said counselling and psychological support services were available to inmates requiring rehabilitation and emotional support.
Prince Simelane said correctional services had also sought to promote social integration by allowing selected offenders to participate in national events such as Umhlanga, Incwala and the Buganu Festival.
He reported that modern technology, including drones, was being used to patrol correctional farming fields, while the service had also acquired vehicles and tractors to support its operations, although more resources were still required.
On infrastructure development, the minister revealed that correctional facilities in Matsapha and Mankayane were being upgraded through the construction of double-storey accommodation blocks, with each room equipped with a television.
He further highlighted efforts aimed at improving self-sufficiency within correctional institutions, noting that inmates were involved in baking activities.
He said he recently sampled bread produced at a correctional facility during a visit with the prime minister.
