The Uganda Prisons Service has stepped up its drive to reduce prison congestion and improve the welfare of inmates, with the commissioning of a new twin prison ward at Isimba Prison Farm in Masindi District.
The facility was commissioned by the Assistant Commissioner General of Prisons in charge of Correctional Services, Mr. Milton Tiyo, during a visit to the prison farm.
Mr. Tiyo was accompanied by Mr. Gerevase Tumuhimbise, Commissioner of Prisons in charge of Engineering, and Mr. Moses Atina, Superintendent of Prisons and Service Estates Manager.
Constructed by the Prisons Engineering Gang, the twin ward consists of two units, each with a capacity of 100 inmates, providing accommodation for 200 prisoners.
The new wards are fitted with security systems, perimeter fencing, adequate lighting, electricity and ventilation. They also have improved sanitation facilities, including toilets and designated areas for bathing and washing. The buildings have been completed with face brickwork, roofing, flooring and terrazzo finishes.
In addition, the facility has a functional medical unit positioned between the two wards, serving both sections. The medical wing is equipped to provide basic health services to inmates and includes treatment and admission sections. Another similar facility is planned for establishment at the same prison unit to further improve access to healthcare.
Speaking to inmates during the commissioning, Mr. Tiyo commended them for maintaining good hygiene and keeping their surroundings clean despite living and working at a prison farm.
He encouraged the inmates to maintain proper personal hygiene as an important part of staying healthy. He also urged them to maintain discipline, work hard and take advantage of agricultural activities at the farm to gain skills that can help them earn a living after release.
Mr. Tiyo also reminded the inmates that they continue to enjoy basic rights and services while in custody, including decent accommodation, meals, clothing and other forms of care provided by the Service.
He assured them of the Uganda Prisons Service's commitment to providing proper and secure care while improving the welfare of both inmates and staff.
He further noted that the Service is working to expand other facilities at the prison, particularly accommodation for staff and inmates, to improve conditions at the unit.
The development at Isimba is part of the Uganda Prisons Service's ongoing infrastructure programme aimed at reducing congestion and improving prison facilities across the country. Major projects have also been completed at Rwimi, Isingiro, Amita, Bubulo, Masafu, Lira, Luzira Women, Rukungiri, Ngogwe, Mityana and Yumbe, among other facilities.
The new ward will therefore not only provide additional accommodation but also support the Service's wider work of safe custody, rehabilitation, skills development and preparing inmates for successful reintegration into their communities
Established in 1962, Isimba Prison Farm is one of the Service's key agricultural establishments. The farm produces about 10,000 bags of maize per season and has a herd of about 698 beef cattle. The farm uses modern agricultural practices in crop and livestock production
