In celebration of Women’s Day, the Department of Correctional Services (DCS) and SABC Ligwalagwala FM hosted an impactful Women Behind Bars live broadcast on Saturday, 09 August 2025, at Middelburg Correctional Centre in the Limpopo, Mpumalanga and North West (LMN) Region.
The initiative builds on a partnership formed in 2024 at Nelspruit Correctional Centre, aimed at inspiring and empowering incarcerated women. This year’s broadcast shone a spotlight on the socioeconomic challenges faced by women, as well as DCS’s role in rehabilitation and reintegration.
National Commissioner of the Department of Correctional Services, Mr Makgothi Thobakgale said such initiatives rekindle hope and encourage a positive outlook among women behind bars.
“An incarcerated person can still make a positive contribution to society after their release and many are doing so. At our facilities, each offender follows a sentence plan tailored to address the root causes of their criminal behaviour. Programmes like this reassure women offenders that it’s not over for them; there is still an opportunity to change,” he said.
Following a guided tour of the female section, SABC Regional Operations Manager, Mr Lungile Nduvane, reaffirmed the broadcaster’s commitment to supporting inmates’ restoration journey.
“We have seen the hard work these women are putting into turning their lives around. We will continue to support your efforts until your release, and we look forward to seeing the projects you will bring to life as reformed individuals,” said Nduvane.
For some inmates, the day was deeply emotional.
“This day reminds me that I could have made better choices, regardless of the circumstances that led me to commit murder,” said 26-year-old offender Thandeka Mthimunye.
Lindiwe Masilela (45) expressed regret for allowing greed to land her in prison, warning other women not to engage in economic crimes to maintain flashy lifestyles.
The programme featured a drama performance by offenders on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF), highlighting its devastating impact on families and communities.
The celebration concluded with a showcase of inmates’ handmade crafts, artwork, clothing, and beadwork, a testament to their skills and determination to rebuild their lives.