Introduction:
At the program; GIVE THEM HOPE 6th Edition (Youths with Visions Global 6th anniversary Celebration), which was suppose to take place on the 26th of June 2023 but was shifted to July 3rd, Pacmef jointly partner with Youths with Visions Global to celebrate their 6th anniversary. A group of volunteers from Pacmef joint with Youths with Visions Global team to embarked on a visit to Buea Central Prison with the aim of Giving Hope the inmates and leaving a positive impact through various activities. This year’s GIVE THEM HOPE Program was with the Theme; “SPORT OF LOVE, HOPE AND FREEDOM”. The visit included a friendly football match, engaging with the inmates, distribution of items such as; Bags of Rice, Toiletries, soap, pads and many others, and providing educational and practical guidance on menstrual hygiene to female inmates.
Arrival and Orientation:
Upon reaching Buea Central Prison, we were warmly welcomed by the prison authorities who offered a brief orientation on the facility and its operations. We were further acquainted with the guidelines and restrictions normally imposed to ensure the safety and security of both inmates and visitors.
Football Match:
To initiate our visit on a positive note, we organized a friendly football match between the volunteers and the inmates which at the end of the march the inmates won 7-3. This activity provided an opportunity for social interaction, physical exercise, and a break from their usual routine. The excitement was palpable as both inmates and volunteers displayed their skills and cheered each other on. This simple act of engaging in sports served as a unifying force, fostering a sense of camaraderie among inmates and volunteers alike.
Engaging with Inmates:
Following the football match, we had the chance to interact with the inmates in personal conversations. This allowed us to understand their unique stories, learn about their experiences, and provide a listening ear to their concerns. These interactions surfaced stories of injustice, regret, and aspirations, reminding us of the importance of empathy and understanding in supporting the rehabilitation process.
Education on Menstrual Hygiene:
Parallel to engaging with male inmates, our team was specifically focused on educating female inmates about menstrual hygiene. Many of these women lacked access to basic sanitary products, leading to unhygienic practices during menstruation. We delivered a comprehensive session on menstrual hygiene management, emphasizing the importance of regular hygiene practices, the proper use and disposal of sanitary products, and debunking common myths and misconceptions. We sensitized them on available resources and advocated for better support for female inmates regarding menstrual care.
Distribution of Foodstuffs and Pads:
As part of the visit, the team distributed foodstuffs, including bags of rice, salts, maggi, oil, and other essential food items, to alleviate some of the nutritional challenges faced by inmates. Additionally, recognizing the specific needs of female inmates, sanitary pads were distributed to address menstrual hygiene.
Practical Guidance and Support:
In addition to the education session, our team distributed essential supplies such as sanitary pads, soap, and other items to the female inmates. These basic items were not only deeply appreciated, but also served to alleviate their discomfort and provide them with a sense of dignity during their menstrual cycles. Our team also facilitated a discussion that allowed women to voice their concerns, ask questions, and receive practical advice on managing their menstrual health within the prison environment.
Conclusion:
Our visit to Buea Central Prison to celebrate the YWV Global 6th anniversary under the program; GIVE THEM HOPE was an emotionally powerful and impactful experience. The football match and personal engagements with inmates provided a much-needed break from their daily routines, fostering a sense of belonging and hope. The education session and practical guidance on menstrual hygiene catered specifically to the well-being and dignity of female inmates, aiming to bridge a significant gap in their current living conditions. It is our hope that our visit has not only created a positive impact on the lives of the inmates but also highlighted the need for comprehensive support of the prison system in ensuring the welfare and rehabilitation of all inmates. We sincerely express our gratitude to Buea Central Prison authorities for their cooperation and commend their efforts in maintaining a conducive environment for rehabilitation.
