The Limpopo/Mpumalanga/North West (LMN) Region is fortunate to have not recorded a Covid-19 confirmed case amongst inmates as yet.
LMN Acting Regional Commissioner, Mr Raynold Ndema said that the region has been implementing various preventative measures to ensure that it is able to respond effectively should rapid spread of the virus occur. “Since the LMN region is vast, with three provinces, it was decided that there will be quarantine and isolation sites in each province,” he said.
Acting Deputy Regional Commissioner, Mr. Takalani Mashamba said the impending release of qualifying inmates on parole will ease overcrowding and help to curb the coronavirus inside correctional centres. He reported that parole boards are seized with this important task, and are working meticulously and tirelessly to expedite the process. “Qualifying inmates for the Covid-19 special parole dispensation will not be released all at once, and we have started with the release of elderly inmates who are above 60 years of age and those with underlying health conditions,” Mr Mashamba explained.
Standerton has been identified as a quarantine site for Mpumalanga province. Mr Ndema and Mr Mashamba, accompanied by LMN regional office officials, stakeholders from Lekwa Local Municipality, SAPS and the Department of Health, visited Standerton Correctional Centre, on 21 May 2020, to evaluate their state of readiness to combat Covid-19. The first stop was at the hospital section, which serves as a 124-bed quarantine site. The hospital section also boasts the latest medical features and equipment, to ensure effective care and treatment of patients. Regional Coordinator Healthcare Services, Ms. Annah Makhubela reported that plans are afoot to strengthen capacity by recruiting additional nurses.
The visit concluded with a tour of the mask manufacturing workshop, where production of face masks for all sentenced offenders in the management area was observed. “The commitment of officials and inmates is greatly inspiring,” said Mr. Ndema.
