LocationsUNDP commissions water facility for Kenema female correction center
June 6, 2024
UNDP Sierra Leone RR , Fredrick Ampiah cutting the tape to commission the water facility with the Regional Commander East Sierra Leone Correctional Centre Kenema, Lamin Bangura
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has commissioned a new water facility for the Kenema Female Correction Centre, providing a reliable source of clean water for the center’s inmates and staff. The facility is one of two boreholes recently constructed by UNDP in Kenema, and Mafanta Correctional centers.The water facility, which was funded by UNDP, will improve the health and well-being of the center’s population, and support the government's efforts to enhance the living conditions in prisons across the country.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, the UNDP Resident Representative, Fred Ampiah, emphasized the importance of access to clean water for human dignity and development.
"This water facility is a critical investment in the lives of the women at the Kenema Female Correction Centre," said Ampiah. "It demonstrates our commitment to supporting the government's efforts to improve the lives of all Sierra Leoneans, especially those in vulnerable situations."
UNDP Sierra Leone's RR , Fredrick Ampiah at pipe stand within the Kenema Corrections Centre, with the Regional Commander , Lamin Bangura
The water two, 5000-liter facility is a key component of UNDP's comprehensive support programme, designed to improve the well-being and dignity of individuals in correctional facilities. This initiative aims to enhance access to safe and sustainable drinking water source and hygiene needs of inmates and staff. UNDP is promoting a more inclusive and supportive justice system that fosters rehabilitation, dignity, and second chances.
The Regional Commander East Sierra Leone Correctional Centre Kenema, Lamin Bangura commended UNDP for its continuous support to the Correctional Centres. He highlighted previous support to the erection of water facilities in Bo, Moyamba, Kailahun, Kono and Port Loko correctional centres. With reference to water facility in Kenema.
He said, "This water facility is a particularly important for us. It is a symbol of dignity for the women in our care. We are grateful to UNDP for this precious gift, which will improve the health, well-being, and rehabilitation of our inmates."
With this new facility, the Kenema Female Correction Centre will have a reliable source of clean water, improving the health and well-being of its population, and supporting the government's efforts to enhance the living conditions in correctional facilities across the country.
The Regional Commander, East Sierra Leone Correctional Centre in Kenema, Lamin Bangura
Promoting rehabilitation of female inmates
In its efforts to promote rehabilitation and reintegration of inmates, UNDP has supported the vocational training for inmates at Kenema and the Mafanta Correctional Centre. Through this initiative, inmates have acquired valuable skills in carpentry, tailoring, bakery, and agriculture, enhancing their employability and potential for a smooth reintegration into society upon completion of their sentences.
By empowering inmates with practical skills, UNDP is helping to reduce re-offense rates (recidivism) and support the government's efforts to build a more just and peaceful society. This vocational training programme has not only improved the lives of the inmates but also contributed to the development of a more skilled and productive workforce.
Broader support to the Sierra Leone Correctional Service
To address the perennial problem of overcrowding in correctional centers and pursuit of speedy justice for inmates, UNDP has on several occasions supported special courts sittings usually called the ‘Judicial Week and the Prison Court’ Projects.
In 2023, UNDP, through a partnership with the Judiciary, Legal Aid Board and SLCS, supported the Judicial Week and Prison Court case review sessions, provided access to justice for 1,779 (M:1,727, F:52) inmates most of whom have been victims of prolonged detention and flawed sentences.
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