Fatshimetrie, August 16, 2024 – The issue of agricultural production within the Mbuji-Mayi prison, in the Kasai Oriental province of the Democratic Republic of Congo, is at the heart of the concerns of local authorities. Indeed, during a recent meeting between the governor and the provincial Minister of Justice, accompanied by the prison director, the need to set up an agricultural activity for prisoners was discussed.
For the provincial Minister of Justice, Mr. Pascal Hernaince Ilunga, this initiative is part of a more global approach to the reintegration of prisoners. Indeed, it is essential to offer productive activities to prisoners in order to promote their social and professional rehabilitation. It is in this context that the minister requested the granting of 100 hectares of land for the establishment of an agricultural field within the Mbuji-Mayi prison.
This agricultural production project aims not only to provide occupation for prisoners but also to contribute to the food self-sufficiency of the prison. The first crop planned for this land will be corn, a staple food in the Kasai Oriental region. This initiative will thus ensure a regular supply of food for prisoners and reduce the costs related to their food.
Beyond the economic aspect, this agricultural project represents an opportunity for training and reintegration for prisoners. By participating in agricultural work, they will be able to acquire skills useful for their reintegration into society once their sentence has been served. In addition, this activity will contribute to establishing a climate of work and responsibility within the penitentiary establishment, thus promoting better monitoring and management of detention.
In conclusion, the establishment of agricultural production at Mbuji-Mayi prison is a promising initiative that demonstrates the desire of local authorities to promote the reintegration of prisoners. This project, in addition to contributing to the food self-sufficiency of the establishment, offers prisoners an opportunity to train and reintegrate into society. This is a commendable approach that deserves to be encouraged and supported to promote the successful rehabilitation of prisoners. ACP/ODM