On February 25, 2025, the Western Regional Minister, Hon. Joseph Nelson, paid a working visit to the prison facility in Sekondi. According to him, he is more convinced after touring the premises that his decision to visit the prison yard was a rightful decision. He expressed his emotional response to the subpar food conditions for inmates, emphasizing that their well-being is a top priority. The minister acknowledged the problems of the prison, which include irregular power supply, water problems, and inadequate accommodation for both officers and inmates.
Hon Joseph Nelson stressed the need for a new prison facility, given the current one’s limitations, which date back to its construction when Sekondi was a smaller community. He pledged to collaborate with the Interior Ministry to address these concerns and provide vocational training for inmates, enabling them to contribute positively to society upon release.
The minister commended the prison officers for their dedication and assured them of his support. Deputy Director of Prisons, Mr. Abraham Allotey, thanked Nelson for his visit and appealed for assistance with accommodation and transportation for officers.
Key areas of concern identified during the visit include by the Regional Minister are the following:
– Infrastructure: Relocating the prison to a new facility to address overcrowding and inadequate accommodation.
– Logistics: Improving power supply, water access, and food quality for inmates.
– Rehabilitation: Providing vocational training for inmates to equip them with skills for reintegration into society.
– Support for Officers: Addressing accommodation and transportation challenges faced by prison officers.
