Page 13 - Msingi Afrika Magazine Issue 35
P. 13
Leadership
sentence is reduced by three months. food production for their families and the
nation while also reducing their prison terms
This innovative approach aims to reduce through meaningful labor. It is an absolutely
prison overcrowding and promote restorative brilliant approach.
justice, marking a significant departure from
traditional punitive methods. The reform Furthermore, I believe this new policy by
was announced by Interim President Ibrahim President Traoré could be strengthened by
Traoré, who emphasized that it aligns with incorporating educational programs within
African values and provides prisoners with the prison system. Inmates should undergo
an opportunity to contribute positively to restorative education and acquire skills
society through agricultural work. such as civil engineering, road construction,
computer engineering, AI development,
This initiative builds on previous government fashion design, music production,
efforts to reform the prison system, such as landscaping, graphic design, photography,
assigning certain offenders to community and more. The possibilities are endless. While
service to alleviate overcrowding. The new working in agriculture to support the nation,
agricultural program is part of President they should also be preparing for successful
Traoré’s broader vision for reform and reintegration into society.
development in Burkina Faso.
(Source: Brave Search) A prison system should serve to physically
restrain individuals only until they have
Now, I believe this story is true. But even if undergone the necessary processes of
it isn’t, it presents a powerful Afro-cultural restoration—not to stifle their minds or
perspective on justice—one that prioritizes humanity.
restoration over punishment rather than
the business model justice has become. Kudos to President Traoré and the people of
Offenders do not cease to be human simply Burkina Faso. We must continue creating real
because they have committed crimes. Just as solutions that reflect our true African identity.
an expired driver’s license does not mean a
driver has forgotten how to drive, a person
who has committed an offense still retains
value and the potential for reform.
I love the idea that individuals who commit
crimes should not waste their lives behind
prison walls. This type of thinking should
extend to other areas of society. With
progressive policies like this, offenders
can remain productive, contributing to
ISSUE 35 | MARCH 2025 13
