Mahama hints upward adjustment of prison inmate feeding grant

President John Dramani Mahama has indicated that the feeding grant for prison inmates could see further increases.

He made the remarks on Saturday during a visit to Nsawam Medium Security Prison, where members of the Ringway Gospel Centre Assemblies of God donated assorted food items to inmates.

Addressing the prisoners, the President highlighted the long-standing inadequacy of the feeding allocation, noting that it had remained unchanged for over a decade.

“Fifteen years ago, the feeding grant was increased to GH¢1.80, and it has never changed since then. So, can you imagine what can GH¢1.80 buy?” he questioned.

He explained that the government has taken steps to improve the situation by increasing the allocation, but suggested that more adjustments are likely.

“So the government decided to increase it to GH¢5, and I can assure you that we will increase it again,” he stated.

President Mahama emphasised that conditions within prisons must reflect the country’s commitment to human dignity and justice, especially for inmates who have not been convicted.

“Because prison is supposed to be correctional. Many of you are on remand; you’ve not been convicted. And so cannot say that you’re guilty of any crime,” he said.

He further acknowledged the possibility of wrongful incarceration, urging a more humane approach to inmate welfare.

“Many of you too are innocent. There are many of you too who have ended here by mistake. Sometimes justice makes mistakes,” he added.

The President stressed that all inmates deserve respect and fair treatment, regardless of their circumstances.

“For everything that we do we must recognize that inmates are Ghanaians too and dignity and respect must be given to them,” he noted.

His remarks formed part of broader discussions during the visit, which also focused on improving living conditions and advancing rehabilitation efforts within correctional facilities across the country.