On the 21st of May, 2022 at 10 a.m. I visited the female inmates at the Nsawam prison – in the Eastern region of Ghana and it was a Saturday well spent.
The inmates were about 70 with ages ranging between the early 20s and late 50s. I was emotionally pumped before going because I didn’t know what to expect.
I had ideas of what the place might look like and I based my assumptions on all that I’ve heard from society. I was overwhelmed. The staff had a cordial relationship with the inmates at Nsawam prison. They looked happy to receive me and the team.
The interactions I had with the prison wardens gave me insight into how the media has painted this image of the wickedness and harsh treatment these ladies go through.
The inmates I saw were at liberty to make calls, they were socialising with the wardens. When asked what activities they are indulged in to keep them mentally sane and ready for society someday, I got to know that there are a variety of vocational training skills such as baking, tailoring, hair styling etc. Some are trained in I.T. and the use of computers.
It was mind-blowing to hear that most of the young ladies were enrolled in the University of Cape Coast’s long-distance program to get a degree. That explained the eloquence of some of these inmates.
It’s humbling watching them go about their daily activities and spending time with them is the highlight of my year yet. They’re main asking for society to help is a mower for their lawn, uniforms for their choir, musical instruments and kitchen appliances.
“It has touched our hearts to have you make time for us and be with us when you could have been anywhere else “were the words of one of the inmates to my team.
I want to visit and do more for these women and I urge each one of us to extend our hearts of love because the prison survives mainly on donations and charity.
And please when visiting, remember not to take bush meat there. I am hoping to get an answer to why anything else but bush meat. Hahaha!
