Correctional Services was allocated K27 million from the 2023 national budget that was handed down by the Treasurer Ian Ling-Stuckey yesterday afternoon.
But that amount in total is not sufficient to cater for CS programs and aims, according to Commissioner Stephen Pokanis.
K27 million allocated to CS will cater for infrastructure and rehabilitation of the CS buildings and also to carry out prison programs.
But the commissioner stated the he is hopeful and understands that this amount is to benefit and to build the CS.
“For the CS department alone, this is not enough. While we would like to have more, I understand that there are other key bodies such as the different departments and state owned enterprises that would need more,” Pokanis said.
The commissioner added that it is a budget of management and creativity, stating that yes there are many services that they would like to carry out, but for now it’s a test to see how best they can be able to work within the parameters of the projected amount.
“We would like to look into the expansion of new dormitories for our staff, also try to look at housing for our officers as well,” he added.
He stated they will now start planning for their programs which includes building their own capacity on correctional practices while building leadership as these are critical areas.
Besides that they would also look at how best they can manage the rehabilitation of prisoners such as TVET and life skills training to give prisoners a chance at a smooth reintegration into society.