Damongo, Savannah Region – President John Dramani Mahama has reaffirmed his commitment to prison reform and humane justice with the commissioning of the newly constructed Damongo Prisons Camp, a modern correctional facility built by the Church of Pentecost.
The facility marks a major step in Ghana’s efforts to promote the rehabilitation and reintegration of inmates into society. Speaking at the ceremony, President Mahama said the new camp symbolizes “a renewed national conscience” toward how the country treats people in custody.
“This is not just about infrastructure; it is about dignity, fairness, and giving people a second chance,” he said.
Outlining his reform agenda, President Mahama announced plans to introduce alternative sentencing and a parole system, as well as to complete abandoned prison projects nationwide. He also pledged to modernize correctional facilities, improve officers’ welfare, and strengthen rehabilitation programmes linked to sustainable livelihoods.
He revealed that the daily feeding rate for inmates has been increased, describing the move “not as charity, but as justice.”
As part of broader reforms, the President said the Ghana Prisons Service will be integrated into the 24-hour economy initiative, engaging in the production of uniforms, furniture, and processed foods for both government use and the open market.
President Mahama commended the Church of Pentecost for its continued partnership with the state in promoting restorative justice and social transformation, noting that collaboration between faith-based organizations and government is essential to creating a more compassionate justice system.
“Every life is redeemable, and every second chance counts,” he said, urging society to see correctional facilities as places of renewal rather than punishment.
The commissioning of the Damongo Prisons Camp is expected to ease congestion in existing facilities and provide better conditions for inmates and officers alike.
Story by Doe Benjamin Kofi Lawson