Africa-Press – Eswatini. New Gates, through its Beyond Success programme, donated 500 branded T-shirts to inmates at Bhalekane Correctional Centre on Tuesday, 8 July 2025. The gesture is aimed at restoring dignity and promoting a sense of belonging among those behind bars, highlighting the importance of support in the journey toward reintegration into society.
The handover was led by Beyond Success Programmes Coordinator, Mthobisi Dlamini, who said the initiative was born from a desire to contribute positively to the lives of incarcerated individuals. “We believe every person deserves a second chance,” Dlamini said. “By donating these T-shirts, we hope to uplift the spirits of inmates, create a sense of identity, and support their journey of personal growth.”
Receiving the donation on behalf of the institution, Assistant Commissioner Gugulethu Dlamini, Officer-in-Charge of Bhalekane Correctional Centre, described the contribution as both practical and symbolic. “These T-shirts bring more than just comfort, they bring dignity,” she said. “Our rehabilitation programmes depend on community support, and we are grateful to Beyond Success for their compassion and belief in our work.”
Deputy Commissioner General of Rehabilitation Programmes, Bongani Khumalo, who was also present at the event, praised the donation as a symbol of hope within correctional spaces. He noted that the act of generosity demonstrated a deeper commitment to making inmates feel acknowledged, supported, and valued. Khumalo emphasized that rehabilitation should not be viewed solely as a government responsibility, but as a shared societal duty highlighting the donation as a strong example of such collective support.
From inside the walls of the facility, the impact was deeply felt. Inmate representative Melusi Dlamini expressed sincere thanks on behalf of the prison population. “These T-shirts remind us that we are not alone and not forgotten. They give us hope, a reason to believe that we can start anew,” he said. “Thank you to everyone who believes in our future.”
The Beyond Success initiative continues to challenge stigmas and advocate for inclusive rehabilitation, proving that even the smallest gesture,like a T-shirt can be the thread that weaves together dignity, hope, and a second chance.
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