The Commissioner General of Prisons, Can. Dr. Johnson Byabashaija moderated on a panel discussion of “Perspectives and Challenges in Corrections: Experience from African Jurisdictions” in a livestream discussion at the ongoing International Corrections and Prisons Association (ICPA) 2021 Online Annual Conference (26-28 0ctober 2021).

The panelists discussed papers on:

i.          Dealing with Old prisons infrastructure to improve conditions of detention: standards, designs, refurbishment and maintenance.

Presenters:

Geert de Vries, Water and Habitat in Detention Thematic Advisor, International Committee of Red Cross (ICRC), Kenya.

Dan Obiero ouya, Assistant Commissioner of Prisons, Directorate of Planning and Development, Kenya Prisons Service

Adro Baquome Odette Epouse Boni, Directorate of Infrastructure and Maintenance, Ministry of Justice and Human rights, Cote d’ivoire

ii.         “As I stood dead before the world”: Restoring human dignity through creative writing programme in Uganda Prisons.

Presenters:

Danson Sylvester Kahyana PhD, Senior Lecturer Literature Department, Makerere University and President Uganda PEN.

Robert Omita Okoth, Regional Prison System Advisor, International Committee of Red Cross (ICRC), Ethiopia.

iii.        Managing public health in prisons in the time of Covid-19 and accessing vaccine for prison staff and detainees in Africa.

Presenters:

Dr. Nuria Carrera Grano, Regional Health care in Detention Specialist, international Committee of Red Cross, Tunisia.

Dr. Karim Traore, United Nations Multidimensional Integrated stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA, Justice and Corrections Section), Mali.

Dr. Eric-Didier N’DRI, World Health Organization, Cote d’iviore.

ICPA is an innovative, learning platform which enhances international and inter-agency co-operation. It actively promotes policies and standards for humane and effective correctional policies and practices, assisting in their development and implementation.

ICPA believes that imprisonment is a last resort and support the development of alternative sanctions and community corrections.

ICPA believe in integrity and professionalism, the sharing of ideas and partnerships. We believe in the capacity for positive change in individuals, their dignity and the duty to protect their rights.