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In a remarkable demonstration of compassion and dedication, Rev. Superintendent Stella Ama Katso, Chaplain of the Ashanti Regional Prisons, and her husband, Dr. Anku, brought relief and hope to inmates at Amanfrom Prison Camp through a generous donation of essential items worth thousands of Ghana cedis. This annual outreach initiative reflects Rev. Katso’s deep commitment to uplifting the prison community in the Ashanti Region, fostering both material and spiritual well-being among inmates.
The donation, consisting of plastic chairs, sound system speakers, and a variety of food items, was designed to meet immediate needs and offer comfort to the prisoners. The event was further marked by a powerful worship and praise session led by Rev. Katso, creating an atmosphere of reflection, encouragement, and spiritual connection for the inmates and prison staff. Rev. Katso explained that her aim is to remind inmates that society has not forgotten them and that they are valued as individuals.
Speaking to the media after the ceremony, Rev. Katso shared her heartfelt commitment to the well-being of inmates and called on the public to support prison rehabilitation efforts. “This outreach is something very close to my heart. My mission is to put smiles on the faces of these inmates and let them know that there are people who care deeply about their welfare,” she expressed. She also urged Ghanaians to contribute however they can to support prisoners, highlighting the profound impact even small gestures of kindness can have.
Receiving the donation on behalf of Amanfrom Prison Camp, Deputy Superintendent of Prisons (DSP) Owusu Nana Yaw expressed gratitude for the consistent support Rev. Katso has provided over the years. He noted the positive impact her efforts have on the morale and mental well-being of the inmates, stating, “The kindness from compassionate people like Rev. Katso is invaluable. It brings hope and reminds the inmates that they have not been forgotten.” DSP Nana Yaw further outlined the prison’s pressing needs, including better facilities and resources, and called on other organizations, religious bodies, and individuals to follow Rev. Katso’s example.
Another notable contributor to the initiative is Mrs. Theodosia Jackson, Principal of Jackson University College, who has also been actively supporting the Ashanti Region’s prison facilities for decades. In addition to her recent donations of 1,850 bars of soap to Kumasi Central Prisons and 240 bars of soap to Amanfrom Prison Camp, Mrs. Jackson has provided essentials like toiletries and food items across various prison facilities. She has even constructed toilet facilities for both male and female inmates at Kumasi Central Prisons, demonstrating her sustained commitment to improving conditions in Ghana’s prison system.
Mrs. Jackson, who began her prison ministry in 1983, explained that her dedication to this cause stems from a deep sense of purpose. “Helping prisoners is a gift from God,” she shared, emphasizing the importance of offering hope and guidance to inmates. Mrs. Jackson expressed her hope that her efforts would contribute to the spiritual and emotional transformation of the prisoners. She encouraged Ghanaians to support ongoing rehabilitation efforts, stressing that empathy and support can pave the way for inmates to reintegrate successfully into society.
In addition, Mrs. Jackson urged families of inmates to show love and understanding when their relatives are released, stressing the importance of family support in reducing recidivism. “Families play a crucial role in helping former prisoners adjust and rebuild their lives. Embracing them with love and understanding can be the key to their successful reintegration into society,” she said.
The event left a profound impact on the inmates, many of whom expressed heartfelt gratitude for the generosity and compassion shown by Rev. Katso, Mrs. Jackson, and their teams. The donation and worship session not only provided immediate relief but also fostered a sense of dignity and hope among the prisoners, reminding them of the possibility of a brighter future.
Through these efforts, Rev. Katso and Mrs. Jackson are helping to create a supportive environment within the Ashanti Regional Prisons, promoting rehabilitation and personal growth. Their dedication to the welfare of prisoners serves as an inspiring example of how compassion and community support can transform lives, encouraging Ghanaians to view prisoners with empathy and contribute to their well-being.
By Simon Opoku Afriyie
