Rev. Mrs. Stella Ama Anku Katso, the Ashanti Regional Prisons Chaplain and founder of Amenuve Outreach Ministry, has once again spread holiday cheer with her 19th annual Christmas donation. This year, she presented 300 pieces of clothing to female inmates across Ghana, continuing her mission of supporting the rehabilitation and well-being of incarcerated women. The heartfelt donation was made during a ceremony at Kumasi Central Female Prison, symbolizing not only a gesture of kindness but a deep commitment to the lives of those behind bars.
The donated clothes, including dresses, shirts, and trousers, are meant to provide the women with basic essentials, but more importantly, they serve as a message of hope, dignity, and compassion. Attendees at the event, including inmates, prison officials, and community leaders, were moved by the thoughtful gesture and the significance of this yearly tradition.
Speaking to the women, Rev. Mrs. Katso reflected on the importance of her ongoing efforts. “For the past 19 years, I’ve been donating clothes to female inmates across Ghana, not just to meet their basic needs, but to show them that they are cared for and not forgotten,” she said. With visible emotion, she reassured the women that despite their current circumstances, there is always hope for a brighter future.
Rev. Mrs. Katso’s message went beyond material gifts, as she highlighted the significance of these donations in rebuilding self-worth and confidence. “These clothes are a symbol of hope. I want you to know that even though you are here, you are still valued, and one day, you will be reintegrated into society. There is always a chance for a better tomorrow,” she encouraged.
The Ashanti Regional Prisons Chaplain used the occasion to appeal to other philanthropists and organizations to consider supporting female inmates. “While many people focus on donating to orphanages, I ask them to remember female prisoners. Small acts of kindness, such as giving clothes or other necessities, can make a huge difference in their lives,” she urged.
Mr. James B. Mwinyelle, the Deputy Director of Prisons and Acting Officer in Charge of Kumasi Central Prison, expressed his gratitude for Rev. Mrs. Katso’s long-standing contributions. “This is not the first time she has supported our female inmates, and her kindness over the years has greatly impacted their lives. On behalf of the prison community, we thank her and pray for blessings upon her,” he stated. He also acknowledged that her contributions have been instrumental in improving the conditions and spirits of the prisoners.
In his address, Mr. Mwinyelle stressed the importance of rehabilitation within the prison system, encouraging more individuals and organizations to offer support. “Prisons are not only places of punishment; they are centers of rehabilitation. We welcome all forms of support, and we assure that anything donated will be used to benefit the prisoners,” he added.
Rev. Mrs. Katso’s 19th annual donation is a powerful reminder of the true spirit of Christmas—one of compassion, selflessness, and generosity. Through her work with Amenuve Outreach Ministry, she has touched the lives of many female prisoners, giving them not just essential clothing, but a sense of hope and a chance for reintegration into society.
As the festive season unfolds, her efforts serve as a shining example of how small acts of kindness can have a lasting impact. Rev. Mrs. Katso’s dedication continues to inspire others to help those in need, especially those who are often overlooked in society. Her work reinforces the importance of uplifting those who are incarcerated, ensuring they know they are not forgotten, and providing them with a renewed sense of purpose and dignity.
By Simon Opoku Afriyie