By Joel Chirwa and Esther Ndhlozi

Mzuzu, August 17, Mana: Malawi Prison Service’s Acting Public Relations Officer for the northern region, Macbeth Wansambo has called for positive attitude from the public towards prison inmates by getting involved in supportive initiatives that are geared towards their reformation.

Wansambo made the sentiments, Saturday when a Mzuzu based charity organization, Azimayi Reachout and Touch cheered inmates and donated assorted groceries and food items to Mzuzu Prison.

He said currently the prison service is embarking on various programs in education and vocation activities that are aimed at effectively reforming individuals serving time at the correctional centre.

"As an institution we have moved away from punitive measures and are working on the concept of using correctional measures. We involve inmates in various vocational trades such as tailoring, carpentry, farming and fisheries.

He said the service is also providing school and vocation studies to inmates so that they become productive citizens after completing serving their jail terms.

He said the public needs to view prisons as correctional centres not punitive institutions and asked for assistance that would support the service achieve its goals.

"We appeal to stakeholders and well-wishers to help us improve our income-generating projects, ensuring a satisfying experience for inmates and efficient operations” said Wansambo.

Commenting on the matter, Chairperson of Azimayi Reach Out and Touch Group, Given Mushani said inmates require support.

“Our vision is to help the needy, and we visited Mzuzu Prison to fulfill that. We recognize that inmates, despite their status, are people in need of various support. They are people who the society oftentimes neglect,” said Mushani