Tsumeb: Evaristus Shikongo Correctional Facility in the Oshikoto Region is empowering its inmates through an agricultural programme aimed at boosting food security. Inmates at the male-only facility, located 25 kilometres outside of Tsumeb, are actively engaged in farming activities including crop cultivation, horticulture, cattle farming, and poultry. Of the 641 inmates, 556 are Namibians, 42 are Angolans, 42 are Zambians, and one is a Zimbabwean national.
According to Namibia Press Agency, during a recent media familiarisation tour, the officer in charge of the facility, Deputy Commissioner Nestor Nghifenua, highlighted the programme's success in supplying various products to training colleges and other facilities. 'Producing our own food is cheaper, especially when it comes to meat. It is better to produce our own food and feed our inmates,' Nghifenua stated.
From January to July, the facility has distributed 867.2 kilogrammes (kg) of beef, 2,000kg of carrots, 3,420 eggs, and 1,941 tonnes of lucerne. Nghifenua, however, noted some challenges, such as a lack of slaughtering equipment, worn-out machinery, and a shortage of human capital.
Deputy commissioner of farm operations, Wallis Kanguatjivi emphasised that the large-scale food production initiative significantly aids the government in cost-cutting measures. 'What we are growing is helping us meet the government halfway; whatever we are doing here should form part of the inmates' ratio as we are supplying to other facilities,' he explained. Kanguatjivi also revealed plans for a high-tech piggery capable of housing 2,500 pigs, set to be operational by April 2026.
Beyond the immediate benefits of food production, the programme offers valuable rehabilitation opportunities. Inmate Richard !Goaseb, who has been incarcerated for 14 of his 32-year sentence, expressed his passion for agriculture and his anticipation of starting his own farming business upon his release. 'This is an opportunity to learn new skills. I know how to dehorn and brand cattle, and I love working with cattle,' he shared.
In addition to agricultural training, the facility provides comprehensive rehabilitation services, including psychological programs, religious care, and healthcare services to offenders.