14/06/2026
REHABILITATION THROUGH SKILLS: INMATES AT THYOLO FEMALE PRISON LEARN DISHWASHING LIQUID AND PINE GEL PRODUCTION
_By: Wdr. Loveness Mwale, Assistant PRO, Thyolo Female Prison_
Correctional facilities are increasingly recognized as centers for rehabilitation, reformation, and education. The focus is shifting from punishment alone to transforming individuals from dependency to self-reliance, and preparing them for meaningful reintegration into society.
On 12 June 2026, inmates at Thyolo Female Prison received training in making dishwashing liquid soap and pine gel. The initiative aims to reduce operational costs at the institution while promoting home-based industries. More importantly, it equips inmates with practical, income-generating skills they can use after release.
Facilitating the training, Gender Officer Glr. Patricia Chingoli commended the inmates for their enthusiasm and commitment. She emphasized the value of hard work and self-reliance for women.
“As women, it is important to work hard and engage in productive activities that can support our daily needs without depending entirely on others,” she said.
Chingoli added that empowering women with vocational skills also prevents crime by providing sustainable ways to earn a living. Women with such skills are less likely to reoffend after completing their sentences.
One participant, Ireen Chibowa, expressed gratitude for the opportunity. She said the training would help her start a soap-making business and improve her family’s welfare.
“The rehabilitation programs at Thyolo Female Prison have transformed my life. I have gained practical skills that I intend to use when I return home. I also pledge to share this knowledge with members of my community so that others can benefit,” Chibowa said.
The soap and pine gel production program is part of the Malawi Prisons Service’s broader rehabilitation strategy, which aims to empower inmates, promote self-sufficiency, and support successful reintegration.
In addition to soap making, Thyolo Female Prison offers other vocational training programs, including Painting and Decorating, Bricklaying, Knitting, and Tailoring. This range of skills ensures that women leaving custody have multiple pathways to economic independence and community contribution.
Through these initiatives, the Malawi Prisons Service continues to fulfill its mandate of correcting, rehabilitating, and reintegrating offenders as productive members of society.