Malawi Prison Service hopes for reduced need for food

The Malawi Prisons Service says it anticipates a decrease in the strain on food and housing resources following President Peter Mutharika’s announcement of a 12-month general amnesty for all inmates, excluding those serving life sentences, in celebration of this year’s independence.

National prisons spokesperson Steve Meke stated that this amnesty, which will allow for the early release of inmates, is a positive move as the prisons continue to grapple with overcrowding issues.

Meke noted that the nation’s prisons are currently housing approximately 13,000 inmates, despite a maximum capacity of only 9,000.

He called on citizens nationwide to foster a supportive environment for the inmates who will soon be released from prison.