Southern African Development Community (SADC) will host its Annual Conference of Heads of Corrections, Prisons and Penitentiary Services from May19 to 22 in Salima, Malawi.

The regional gathering, supported by the Malawian government, will take place at the Sunbird Livingstonia Hotel under the theme: “Pathways to Change: Facilitating Effective Offender Rehabilitation and Reintegration in Corrections/Prisons.”

The conference comes as countries across the region increasingly shift away from purely punitive prison systems towards rehabilitation and reintegration-focused approaches. Regional authorities say the move is driven by ongoing concerns over overcrowded prisons, repeat offending and the long-term reintegration of former inmates into society.

Peter Mukhito, Malawi’s Minister of Homeland Security, is expected to officially open the conference.

Delegates will discuss ways to strengthen co-operation among SADC correctional services through the sharing of best practices, tackling common challenges and promoting innovation in offender rehabilitation.

The conference will also focus on programmes aimed at behavioural change and reducing recidivism, while exploring restorative justice initiatives, diversion programmes, psychosocial support and community-based reintegration models.

Organisers say discussions will further reinforce compliance with international standards, including the Nelson Mandela Rules, which promote the humane treatment and dignity of prisoners.

The meeting is also expected to feature contributions from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime and other stakeholders involved in global prison reform and rehabilitation programmes.

–ChannelAfrica/SADC–