Africa-Press – Eswatini. His Majesty’s Correctional Services (HMCS) has reaffirmed its commitment to rehabilitation and reintegration, describing inmates’ participation in the Incwala ceremony as a meaningful and positive step in transforming offenders into responsible members of society.
In a statement issued by its Public Relations Department, HMCS said the inclusion of inmates in the ongoing Incwala ceremony forms part of broader rehabilitation initiatives aimed at moral renewal, behavioural change, and social reintegration. The institution was responding to public concern regarding the presence of inmates at the culturally significant national event.
HMCS explained that participation in Incwala is fully aligned with its rehabilitation mandate, which prioritises restoring offenders’ sense of identity, discipline, and belonging. The institution emphasised that culture plays a vital role in shaping values and fostering personal transformation, particularly among individuals seeking a second chance in life.
Over the years, HMCS has facilitated the participation of inmates—especially juveniles—in major cultural events such as the Umhlanga Reed Dance and the cutting of the sacred shrub, Lusekwane. According to the statement, these initiatives have been conducted without discrimination and have yielded positive outcomes, with inmates demonstrating discipline, respect, and commitment during their participation.
The correctional services further noted that some inmates serving long-term sentences have actively contributed to community outreach programmes. Individuals such as Boyce Gama and Maponi Ngubane were highlighted as having played instrumental roles in these initiatives, showcasing how rehabilitation programmes can nurture responsibility and leadership even within correctional settings.
HMCS stated that all inmates are enrolled in rehabilitation and reintegration programmes following conviction, based on assessed needs, behaviour, progress, and responsiveness while in custody. Cultural participation is one of several carefully considered interventions designed to support positive behavioural change.
The institution stressed that allowing inmates to take part in cultural or community activities does not imply early release. Instead, such participation forms part of structured rehabilitation processes, including Victim-Offender Mediation (VOM), where inmates may meet victims to seek forgiveness and promote healing and reconciliation.
HMCS assured the public that inmates’ participation in cultural activities is strictly supervised and managed within the framework of correctional rehabilitation. The institution reaffirmed its commitment to balancing public safety, respect for victims and their families, human rights, and the cultural values of the Kingdom of Eswatini.
Ultimately, HMCS believes that embracing culture as a rehabilitation tool strengthens moral foundations and supports lasting reintegration, contributing to safer communities and a more cohesive society.
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