The Department of Correctional Services (DCS) at the Bizzah Makhate Correctional Facility in the Free State and Northern Cape Region, in partnership with Build-Africa Collab, hosted a heart-warming Christmas celebration on 27 November 2025. The initiative aligns with the words of South Africa’s first democratic President, Nelson Mandela who said: “Giving children a healthy start in life is a moral obligation for everyone.” The event brought festive joy to babies living with their mothers in correctional care, aiming to provide dignity, normalcy, and seasonal cheer to the youngest lives.
Mr Siyanda Mtulu, founder of Build-Africa Collab, explained that this was a national initiative focused on two regions this year. The Free State and Northern Cape hosted the inland provinces’ celebration, while a coastal event will be held in KwaZulu-Natal on 4 December 2025.
“We are committed to the National Development Plan’s objective of ensuring that no child is left behind, and we have pledged to collaborate with the DCS because we believe ‘Corrections is a societal responsibility.’ Our support extends beyond ensuring each child receives their first Christmas gift; we are dedicated to ongoing assistance in various areas,” said Mr Mtulu.
Of the seven gift recipients in the Free State and Northern Cape, five were born behind bars.
The celebration was supported by key DCS stakeholders, including non-profit organisations and members of the Minister’s Fraternal servicing the Bizzah Makhate Management Area. Also in attendance were Ms Sibongile Tlale, CEO of Boitumelo Regional Hospital, representing the Department of Health; and Ms Zanele Mfete, representing the Fezile Dabi District Department of Education. Each highlighted the services their departments provide, recent developments, and opportunities for strengthening collaboration with the DCS.
Ms Subashini Moodley, Regional Commissioner (RC) for the Free State and Northern Cape, thanked partners for their support in advancing the DCS mission to safeguard the well-being and developmental needs of children in correctional facilities.
“Initiatives like this help us accelerate our compliance with the Bangkok Rules for the treatment and administration of children and female inmates. Our Mother and Baby units have undergone a paradigm shift—they are now fully equipped, child-friendly spaces designed to meet infants’ essential needs.
Children in correctional centres are not prisoners; they have committed no crime. With the right partnerships, sustained support, access to Early Childhood Development, and a committed focus on their well-being, these children can look forward to a bright future, regardless of their current circumstances,” concluded RC Moodley.