(KUAJOK) – A baby’s birth at Kuajok prison in Warrap State has come to symbolise a quiet but meaningful transformation taking place behind prison walls, as a vocational training programme backed by the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) continues to reshape lives.
On a recent visit to the prison, UNMISS staff were welcomed with the sound of singing from male inmates. Many of the prisoners have started attending accounting classes. Meanwhile, women inmates were engaged in tailoring sessions, focused on learning practical skills that could help them earn a living upon their release.
Joseph Akol Lual, Deputy Director of Kuajok prison, said the skills training programme, funded by UNMISS in 2023, has significantly improved morale and mental well being among the inmates.
“Our main goal is to ensure inmates are treated with dignity and are given a real chance to become productive members of society after serving their time,” Lual explained. “These skills give them confidence and a sense of economic empowerment that motivates them every day.”
This impact was voiced by one female inmate, who chose to remain anonymous.
“I love designing and tailoring. I believe I’ll be able to open my own small business after I leave prison and make women feel beautiful through my work,” she said, while focusing on a stitching exercise.
UNMISS has supported female inmates in other areas too. One major initiative was the construction of a perimeter wall to separate male and female quarters. The aim was to increase privacy and protect women from the risk of sexual violence.
“We were approached by prison officials to help create safer conditions for women prisoners,” said Precious Chinamasa, a UNMISS Corrections Officer. “We funded the wall through our Quick Impact Projects programme. Inmates were also involved in the construction, which helped build a sense of ownership.”
The new separation has resulted in a more secure and organised environment for both men and women. With improved space, inmates are now able to engage in small scale farming activities, especially during the rainy season when food deliveries from vendors are often disrupted.
