The Ghana Prisons Service has urged Ghanaians to show compassion and support for inmates, particularly the growing number of young people behind bars, warning that neglecting them could have long-term consequences for national development.
The call was made by Ing. James B. Mwinyelle, Deputy Director of the Ghana Prisons Service and Officer-in-Charge of Kumasi Central Prison, who revealed that 70 to 80 percent of inmates at the facility are aged between 20 and 35.
Describing this trend as a “major loss to Ghana’s development,” Ing. Mwinyelle appealed to citizens, community organizations, and faith-based groups to actively engage in preventive and rehabilitative efforts.
He made the statement during a donation handover by Time To Think Foundation and EBAM Foundation, which provided support to inmates at the Kumasi Central Prison.
Ing. Mwinyelle emphasized the need for intensified public education, mentorship, and youth empowerment programs to steer young people away from crime and provide alternatives that foster growth and reintegration.
Pastor Richard Kofi Akosah, CEO of Time To Think Foundation, encouraged the inmates not to lose hope, assuring them that society has a role in helping them rebuild their lives.
“Every young person we guide away from crime and support while in detention is a potential contributor to our nation’s development,” Ing. Mwinyelle said, appealing for continued support from NGOs, faith-based organizations, and individuals to positively shape the lives of inmates.
