Penology in Gambia
Remembering The Gambia's notorious Mile ...
Penology in The Gambia has undergone significant transformation in recent years, shifting from a history of harsh conditions and human rights abuses to a focus on rehabilitation, education, and infrastructural reform. Here's an overview of the current state and ongoing developments in the country's penal system:
🏛️ Historical Context and Challenges
Under the regime of former President Yahya Jammeh, The Gambia's prison system was notorious for its severe conditions. Prisons like Mile 2 Central Prison in Banjul were overcrowded, poorly ventilated, and lacked adequate sanitation and medical care. Reports indicated instances of torture, prolonged solitary confinement, and a high prisoner mortality rate due to neglect and inadequate healthcare .(Human Rights Watch, Refworld)
🔄 Recent Reforms and Initiatives
Since the change in government, there has been a concerted effort to reform the prison system in line with international human rights standards. Key developments include:
Infrastructure Improvements: The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has supported the refurbishment of dormitory facilities at Jeshwang Prison to alleviate overcrowding and reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission .(UNDP)
Educational and Vocational Training: A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Kabboom Academy has introduced a range of programs aimed at equipping inmates and prison officers with skills in areas such as welding, carpentry, dental hygiene, and software development .(gps.gov.gm)
Health and Rehabilitation: The prison system has implemented initiatives to provide nutritious meals and engage inmates in farming activities, promoting physical health and offering therapeutic benefits .(gps.gov.gm)
Legal Access and Case Management: Partnerships with organizations like Justice Defenders have established paralegal offices and digital case management units in all prison centers, facilitating access to legal representation and expediting court proceedings .(The Standard Newspaper | Gambia)
🏗️ Plans for New Facilities
Recognizing the limitations of existing structures, the government has announced plans to construct a new central prison to replace the outdated Mile 2 facility. The Justice Minister emphasized that the current conditions are no longer conducive to incarceration, and efforts are underway to build a modern facility that aligns with international standards .(allAfrica.com)
✅ Ongoing Commitments
The Gambia remains committed to continuous reform of its prison system, with the Ministry of Interior affirming its dedication to aligning with international best practices. Initiatives such as the establishment of Prison Visiting Committees and the development of a new prison bill are part of the broader Security Sector Reform process aimed at enhancing the effectiveness and humaneness of the penal system .(The Standard Newspaper | Gambia)
In summary, The Gambia's penological landscape has shifted from a history of repression to a forward-looking approach centered on rehabilitation, education, and infrastructural development. While challenges remain, the ongoing reforms signal a commitment to creating a more just and humane prison system.
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