English
Kinyarwanda
Rwanda National Police (RNP) reached out to inmates ofMuhanga and Ntsinda correctional facilities and sensitized them about anti-crime initiatives, as well as advised them to shun practices such as drug abuse and gender-based-violence (GBV).
In Muhanga Prison, the District Police Commander of Muhanga, SSP Francis Muheto, told the inmates that part of their rehabilitation process involves them changing from a life of crime to becoming responsible citizens and partners in crime prevention.
“You should think about your behavior upon your release. People should see you as someone ready to have respect and compassion for others and respect for the law,” he said.
"You have all been entitled to programs aimed at reforming and I am certain that you have learned valuable lessons on how to be important citizens.”
In Ntsinda, Rwamagana, the District Community Liaison Officer (DCLO) AIP Goreti Uwimana convened a gathering of inmates, where she urged them to bounce back as respectable members of society who advocate for peace and security.
“Some of you will soon rejoin your families after serving your correctional sentences, but it will be a misfortune to your families and communities if you go back to your former ways of illegality. It is very productive if you become ambassadors of peace and anti-crime initiatives in your communities,” she said.
“You also have a chance to become role models to other members of society by participating in anti-crime campaigns and share your experiences with other members of community, which will discourage them from GBV, drug abuse and other crimes.”
All the inmates who spoke during the two separate productive discussions, recalled how they enrolled in illegal activities, and how they intend to be ambassadors of change once they are reintegrated back in their respective societies.
“I learned that I can change my life even though it is challenging. Once I am back in society, I will endeavor to be a responsible member of society, make a living through legal means. I will not go back to drug abuse and dealing but will help the youth to shun the habit,” one of the inmates, names withheld, said.
