Written by Sgt Rhodrick Masina – Research and Gender Officer, Ntcheu Prison Station
Female inmates at Ntcheu Prison Station were all in a jovial mood when a group of women known as “Amayi Yankhulani” cheered them on 15th September, 2022. The group was established by YONECO with the aim of creating a platform for women from diverse backgrounds in the district to learn and share skills as well as experiences in order to enhance each other’s socioeconomic welfare.
The visit by Amayi Yankhulani group came as direct response to a request which the station’s Research and Gender Officer, Sergeant Rhodrick Masina made on the need for sanitary materials for the female inmates. This request was made in August this year (2022) when officials from YONECO paid a visit to the female inmates at the station. During the visit, issues of hygiene and general mindset change were also discussed.
The group brought assorted grocery items like; Soap, sugar, salt, toothbrushes, shavers, snacks, re-usable sanitary pads, underwear, and clothes among other things. The group also shared words of encouragement while interacting with the inmates. They sang and danced together.
In his remarks, the Female Section in Charge, Inspector Farida Chambo expressed her gratitude to YONECO and the Amayi Yankhulani Women’s Group for the kind and selfless gesture. Inspector Chambo further stated that such visits are necessary as they motivate inmates.
The Chairperson for Amayi Lankhulani explained that the group cherished the quality time they spent with the inmates. She further pledged continued support to the inmates through the provision of skills and materials.
In his address, the Station Officer for Ntcheu Prison, Superintendent James Kafamtandala who spoke on behalf the Officer in Charge, thanked the group for sharing their time and materials with female inmates at the centre. Superintendent Kafamtandala also acknowledged the partnership which the Station has with YONECO which he described as valuable.
