From Allafrica · · 1m
Malawi Tests Community Sentences to Ease Prison Overcrowding
Malawi pilots community corrections to address prison overcrowding as facilities hold 17,000-18,000 inmates.
In brief
Malawi pilots community corrections to address prison overcrowding as facilities hold 17,000-18,000 inmates. Malawi begins community corrections pilot in four districts to reduce prison overcrowding after prisons hold 17,000-18,000 inmates versus 9,000 capacity. Originally reported by Allafrica.
New Law for Community Sentences
Malawi prepares to test community corrections programs in four districts to address prison overcrowding.
“The new Prisons Act is introducing community corrections, where the focus is to divert traffic from our prisons”
Prison Overcrowding Crisis
Malawi's prisons hold 17,000-18,000 inmates despite having a capacity of 9,000.
Training Community Officers
100 community corrections officers complete two-month training at Mapanga in Blantyre.
Districts for Pilot
Pilot program starts in Mchinji, Phalombe, Machinga and Salima districts.
Prisons Service Goal
Prisons space reserved for serious offenders, not minor crime convictions.
“The new Prisons Act is introducing community corrections, where the focus is to divert traffic from our prisons”
Human Rights Support
Human rights groups welcome reforms but stress need for effective implementation.
“The legislation had the potential to reduce overcrowding and improve rehabilitation outcomes”
Unanswered Questions
Authorities have not explained funding, start date or success criteria for the program.
The key point
Malawi begins community corrections pilot in four districts to reduce prison overcrowding after prisons hold 17,000-18,000 inmates versus 9,000 capacity.
