Zonderwater and Nicro partner to empower ex-offenders

To support its ex-offenders, the Zonderwater Correctional Facility joined the National Institute for Crime Prevention and Reintegration of Offenders (Nicro) for a men’s empowerment programme on May 23 at the recreation hall in Zonderwater.

This initiative aims to equip former inmates with the skills and confidence needed for successful reintegration into society.

The event aimed to successfully reintegrate almost 50 (parolees, ex-offenders and probationers) attendees into society.

Nicro is known for promoting a safer community through its exceptional work in social crime prevention and the reintegration of offenders.

Thulani Rampa, the Nicro social worker who facilitated the programme, stressed the importance of men reflecting on and understanding masculinity.

He said this reflection would help them consider their beliefs, values and any societal or cultural influences that have shaped their perspectives.

The attendees participated in topics such as empathy, emotional intelligence, respect and toxic masculinity, all notorious for fuelling domestic violence.

“We help men by these deliberations to refrain from harmful behaviours and the negative attitudes they face in the communities,” said Rampa.

Sipho Nxumalo, the Zonderwater community corrections manager, views the programme as a rehabilitation instrument to reduce recidivism and promote lasting change in ex-offenders’ lives.

Nxumalo said, “The parolees and ex-offenders still confront stigma and unemployment issues. These categories of sessions will help our inmates with personal growth, responsibility and the importance of making positive choices to be trusted again by their victims and community.”

Nxumalo asked the community to forgive and support the former inmates because they had already been punished by serving their terms during incarceration.

ALSO READ: Family in eMbalenhle fear sinkhole in their yard

Parolee Dumsani Thusi applauded the Department of Correctional Services (DCS) partnership because it will benefit him and his peers.

Thusi said, “It is not easy for them to mend the broken relationship with those they hurt through crime.”

Thusi rolled up his sleeves during his release from custody by using the skills learnt in prison to open car wash businesses, where they clean cars, trucks, shoes, carpets and blankets in Zithobeni.

“Although I have employed five people from the community, I still face stigmatisation and conviction problems, which hinder the business’ growth, especially when sourcing resources,” said Thusi.

The communications officer for the Correctional Services, Mashudu Mutamba, said, “Parolees are constantly encouraged to undergo introspection during rehabilitation programmes designed to foster a better sense of self-awareness and positive identity among them as a means of promoting healthier relationships and being a responsible and productive citizen.

“The men’s empowerment programme partnership demonstrates a commitment to creating safer communities and providing second chances to those who served their time.”