Namibia's correctional facility benefits from Malaysia's poultry barn initiative

The acting High Commissioner of Malaysia in Windhoek, Datuk Dr Mohamad Rameez Yahaya, said the collaboration saw the Malaysian government's contribution via the MTCP fund, largely for the project's building in Namibia plus the rearing of 200 chicks in the initial stage to enable the chicken to lay eggs.

"This will assist the Namibian Inmates in the Namibian Hardap Correctional Facility in Mariental to be self-sustained as well as being equipped with the necessary capacity-building development to improve their livelihood post-incarceration.

"The collaboration indicates the continuous efforts by the Government of Malaysia via its MTCP Alumni in Namibia to assist in the socioeconomic development of the Namibians; in this case with the inmate's segment," he said.

Mohamad Rameez added it is hoped that the programme will offer the inmates the opportunity to engage in meaningful activities and acquire valuable skills that will aid in their rehabilitation and reintegration into Namibian society.

According to Mohamad Rameez, this initiative will also empower them with critical knowledge in poultry farming which can be a sustainable source of livelihood after incarceration.

The setting up of the chicken run, providing 200 small chicks that breed eggs with chicken accessories and chicken feed, would greatly benefit the Namibians, he said.

Mohamad Rameez mentioned that such a project augurs well with the MADANI programme as to assist the society in its socio-economic development.

Meanwhile, the President of the MTCP Alumni in Namibia Shali Kapepo also thanked the Government of Malaysia via its MTCP for such generosity and dedication in building up such impactful projects in Namibia.

He said such a project would leave a greater impact and imprint on Namibians regarding Malaysia's effort to enhance its relations with Namibia in various aspects, especially in capacity building development.

Deputy Commissioner General Sam Shaalulange of the Namibian Correctional Service said that the initiative by the High Commission of Malaysia in Windhoek with the MTCP Alumni has opened avenues for the Correctional Service to set up more such poultry barns that will assist further the sustainability of the inmates and those Namibians in need.

-- BERNAMA