the monitor

Stop contraband in prisons!

Botswana's prisons are facing a critical issue with an increasing influx of contraband, including phones and drugs. Commissioner of the Botswana Prison Service, Dinah Marathe rightly points out the alarming rise in criminal activities within prison walls, and she attributes this, in part, to the lack of involvement by relatives and friends in the rehabilitation process.

Marathe's call for public assistance in rehabilitating prisoners is a call to action that cannot be ignored. The proposed integrated prison security solution is a commendable step in addressing the security challenges faced by the prison system. Yet, the success of such measures depends on collaborative efforts from all stakeholders.

The commissioner's revelation about the daily discovery of phones and drugs concealed in toiletries brought by visitors underscores the magnitude of the problem. It is disheartening that instead of supporting their incarcerated loved ones, some individuals contribute to their criminal activities. The prison environment should be one of rehabilitation, not a hub for criminal enterprises.


Editor's Comment
Depression is real; let's take care of our mental health

It is not uncommon in this part of the world for parents to actually punish their children when they show signs of depression associating it with issues of indiscipline, and as a result, the poor child will be lashed or given some kind of punishment. We have had many suicide cases in the country and sadly some of the cases included children and young adults. We need to start looking into issues of mental health with the seriousness it...

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