Prison Journalism: The role of reintegration

Prison Journalism: The role of reintegrationDean Mashimbwe, a Zimbabwean migrant residing in Cape Town, was incarcerated at Pollsmoor Correctional Centre from 2016 until 2017.

by Dean Mashimbwe

14-12-2023 10:34

in Prison Journalism

Prisoner. Image by Pexels/RDNE Stock project

During my time in prison, I underwent reintegration, a process initiated before my release. I participated in restorative justice, which was immensely helpful, not just for parole but also because I decided to reform and change my lifestyle once released.

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The Problem of Recidivism at Pollsmoor I've realized that many things should be done before inmates are released from prison. At Pollsmoor, for instance, 70% of inmates routinely return. Some may leave and come back to jail two or three times a year, indicating that reintegration isn't being effectively implemented. Based on my experience of being imprisoned on three separate occasions within the same year, it's clear that measures must be improved.

Understanding Reintegration Reintegration provides support and assistance to prisoners upon their release, often starting when the offender is first arrested. It prepares them for life and society after imprisonment. Programs and processes are aimed at preventing former prisoners from reoffending. For example, inmates might engage in restorative justice or therapy to adjust to life outside prison.

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Post-Release Support and Rights Upon completing their sentence, prisoners are officially free but retain a criminal record. Reintegration also involves informing them of their rights post-release. We started a Participatory Action Research (PAR) group under Lisa Marqua Harries' guidance three years ago. This group has been instrumental in keeping us engaged and away from criminal activities, serving as an integral part of reintegration.

Reintegration's Role in Reducing Recidivism Reintegration helps reduce and prevent recidivism by educating inmates on abandoning gangsterism, substance abuse, and other criminal behaviours. In my view, high recidivism rates are often due to unemployment, leading to drug abuse and gang violence. I believe the government should either promote and support reintegration or introduce new initiatives like rehabilitation programs and create employment opportunities or recreational centers for the youth to help reduce crime and delinquency.

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DISCLAIMER: Submission published as received

RESTORE is an NGO based in Cape Town, South Africa, providing inmates at Pollsmoor Prison with restorative justice opportunities.

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