A program aimed at empowering prisoners and ex-convicts in northern Ghana has been initiated. Tamale, the capital of the Northern Region, hosts this program.
The primary goal of the “HOPE Project” is to combat recidivism. It aims to enhance mental well-being. The project empowers incarcerated individuals and ex-convicts by providing them with skill-building opportunities. It also helps them reintegrate into society.
The Centre for Social and Development Reform (CDS Reform) is implementing the plan, funded by Misereor, a German donor.
Summary
During the launch, HOPE Project Manager Emmanuel Mba Dome provided an overview of the project’s progress. He emphasized that the current third phase builds upon the achievements of the previous two phases.
According to him, the project’s third phase aims to decrease repeat offenses. It focuses on enhancing mental well-being and empowering former inmates. This is achieved by providing them with vocational training and assisting in their reintegration into society.
According to Mr Dome, the three-year project aims to offer complimentary legal assistance to 450 inmates and detainees. It also intends to educate 15 paralegal officers on aiding in the administration of justice within correctional facilities. At the same time, it plans to teach over 450 former convicts various vocational skills.
In addition, he mentioned that 1,200 inmates will receive assistance in reintegrating into society. Ex-offenders will also launch 600 new businesses.
Reforms to existing policies
David Yiridong Issaka spoke on behalf of the Executive of CDS Reform. Nervous Daguah, the organization’s Head of Programmes, emphasized the pressing need for policy responses. These policies should address high youth unemployment and drug abuse. These factors have been directly linked to the increase in crime rates within our country.
Issaka stated that the neglect of prisoners and ex-offenders in accessing social and economic opportunities is problematic. This neglect contradicts Ghana’s commitment to the principle of “leaving no one behind.”
In addition, he emphasized the insufficiency of the existing daily feeding allowance of GH¢1.80, which only covers GH¢0.60 per meal. He stressed that this is a pressing human rights concern. He urged the government to promptly reassess the amount. This is to guarantee food and nutrition stability for those incarcerated.
DDP Joseph Asabre, Northern Regional Commander of the Ghana Prison Service, commended the NGO and its partners for their intervention. He expressed gratitude for the positive impact it will have. It will provide hope, dignity, and sustainable opportunities to those who are vulnerable within the justice system.
