Prison Inmates in the Eastern Cape offer hope for those who can’t afford wheelchairs.
Eastern Cape, South Africa (10 August 2021) – 20 wheelchairs – manufactured in a prison – were donated to learners at the Ikhwezi Lokusa Special School in Mthatha in the Eastern Cape.
These wheelchairs were entirely made by skilled inmates looking to decrease their sentence. It also formed part of the offender labour programme aimed at community empowerment initiatives. Through this programme, the inmates also plough back to vulnerable communities and demonstrate remorse for crimes committed.
Nkosi Phatekile Holomisa, deputy minister of justice and correctional services, presided over the handover ceremony that took place on Friday.
“Many of those in need of wheelchairs do not have the means to purchase, or access, this much-needed equipment,” Holomisa says.
“We are proud of the contribution that the majority of inmates, together with our Correctional Officials, are making in rebuilding our country.”
The donation has been welcomed by the school.
“We are grateful, this definitely makes a big difference,” Mzontsundu Gulwa says.
“And yes, there are still many other challenges. Money is never enough and unfortunately the kids are very expensive to handle.
“Therefore we appreciate any and all donations,” Gulwa says.
The department says that they feel good about contributing in a positive way.
“It is humbling to reflect on the profound impact this wonderful initiative has on lives across the province.”
Sources: Supplied, Department of Correctional Services
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