Africa-Press – Eswatini. A 19-member task team of Correctional officers has officially begun laying the groundwork for Eswatini’s new Rehabilitation and Reintegration Policy for Correctional Centres.
The team met with Officers-in-Charge of various Correctional Centres, Heads of Sections, and Programme Officers during a high-level engagement held at Mountain View Hotel in Mbabane on Wednesday. The meeting marked the official start of the policy formulation process, which is being supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
Representing the UNDP was Mpendulo Masuku, the focal person for His Majesty’s Correctional Services (HMCS). In his address, Masuku reaffirmed the UNDP’s commitment to supporting the department in developing a robust and inclusive rehabilitation and reintegration framework.
“This policy will help guide the administration of rehabilitation programmes across all correctional centres and ensure effective resource and personnel allocation,” said Masuku. “It will also enhance stakeholder participation, which is critical for the successful reintegration of offenders into society.”
The meeting also included a presentation on the policy development process, delivered by Bashin Nkambule, Sectoral Officer from the Public Policy Co-ordination Unit (PPCU), who emphasized the importance of following structured, consultative steps to ensure the policy’s effectiveness and sustainability.
Deputy Commissioner General Bongani Khumalo, representing HMCS Commissioner General LaMakhosini Phindile Dlamini, called on all officers to actively support and contribute to the policy’s development.
“This is not just another document. It will be a tool that guides how we rehabilitate and reintegrate individuals who have been in conflict with the law. Your input is vital,” said Khumalo, who oversees the Legal Affairs and Rehabilitation department.
The upcoming policy is expected to standardize rehabilitation efforts, promote consistency across correctional centres, and create a stronger foundation for returning inmates to society as reformed individuals.
As the task team begins its work, expectations are high that the policy will contribute meaningfully to the national goal of rehabilitation and reduce recidivism through effective reintegration.
For More News And Analysis About Eswatini Follow Africa-Press
