Vocational training helps inmates avoid reoffending, officials say

None of the 303 inmates who have completed vocational training at a Zomba reformatory since 2021 has reoffended, according to the organisation implementing the programme, as officials called for continued investment in prison education.

Speaking at the graduation of 56 inmates who completed courses in carpentry, tailoring, cosmetology and bricklaying, Malawi Prison Services Eastern Regional Commanding Officer Thomas Damba said vocational training equipped inmates with practical skills and work habits that could help them start businesses or find employment after release.

“Inmates who learn trades are much less likely to commit new crimes,” Damba said, adding that the reformatory’s workshop was in urgent need of modern equipment to prevent inmates from facing difficulties finding suitable tools once they leave prison.

Chagunyuka Mhango, whose organisation runs the vocational programmes at the institution with support from the German government through DVV International, said the scheme’s record spoke for itself.

“None of the empowered ex-inmates has re-offended,” he said.

The initiative was also welcomed by the Ministry of Gender, Children, Disability and Social Welfare. Principal Secretary Esmie Kainja said the vocational training complemented existing adult literacy efforts within the prison system.

“Every adult, regardless of whether he is in or outside prison, needs education,” she said.

Germany’s acting Ambassador, Andreas Hartmann, underlined the importance of inclusive education within prisons, stressing that inmates should not be excluded from access to technical training.

Centre for Human Rights Education, Advice and Assistance executive director Victor Chagunyuka Mhango said the initiative complemented broader efforts to support rehabilitation and reduce recidivism within Malawi’s correctional system.