The Director-General of the Ghana Prison Service, Madam Patience Baffoe-Bonnie Esq, has paid a courtesy call on the Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Hon. Ahmed Ibrahim, to open up dialogue on areas of mutual collaboration that will enhance service delivery and ensure shared national progress.
In her remarks, Madam Patience Baffoe-Bonnie (Esq) pointed out that the role of the Prison Service and that of local government are closely interlinked. She noted that the dividends of decentralisation especially in infrastructure, social amenities, and local development planning should extend to the country’s correctional facilities. These include the construction and maintenance of prisons, provision of staff accommodation, and the delivery of basic services such as CHPS compounds to ensure inmate welfare and staff well-being.
She stressed that the three arms of the Ministry Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs—collectively shape the society that prisons also serve. “We are not working in isolation. We are on the same journey. We are reforming lives, communities, and structures and that takes partnership,” she stated.
The Minister, Hon. Ahmed Ibrahim, warmly welcomed the delegation and acknowledged the critical role of the Prison Service in national development. He provided candid insights on what was currently possible within the Ministry’s framework and what may require further engagement across sectors. He assured Madam Patience Baffoe-Bonnie (Esq.) of the Ministry’s openness to collaboration and advised that the Ghana Prison Service develop a formal composition or concept paper outlining specific proposals.
“This is how we begin through conversation and clarity. When that paper comes in, it will provide a basis for structured dialogue and policy direction. That way, we can push together for what is rightfully due the Ghana Prison Service and, ultimately, for a more just and humane society,” the Minister said.
The meeting ended with a mutual commitment to deepen inter-agency collaboration and pursue actions that will help translate policy into real and measurable benefits for the people.
Source : Darling Maame Efua Cann & Stephanie Edem Klutsey
Public Relations Unit, MLGCRA