On 5 May 2026, Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Correctional Services conducted an oversight visit to Drakenstein Correctional Facility in the Western Cape Region, as part of its ongoing programme to assess operational conditions and support improvements across correctional centres.
During the visit, the Committee observed a range of rehabilitation initiatives aimed at equipping offenders with practical skills and supporting their reintegration into society. These included poultry farming, vegetable production, textile work, and bakery operations; demonstrating the facility’s commitment to self-sufficiency and offender development.
The visit was also prompted by a recent security incident which resulted in the death of an offender. Portfolio Committee Chairperson, Ms Kgomotso Ramolobeng, emphasised the importance of maintaining a secure environment while strengthening operational systems.
“Following the incident, the Committee found it necessary to conduct oversight at the facility. While the overall environment is clean and programmes are progressing well, there are areas that require attention, particularly in relation to infrastructure and equipment maintenance,” she said.
Among the issues identified were the condition of the bakery floor and non-operating of some of the textile machines, which impact production capacity. The Chairperson noted that addressing these challenges would enhance efficiency and support the facility’s self-sufficiency objectives.
Ms Ramolobeng also commended the Department for progress made in recruitment processes to fill vacancies arising from early voluntary retirements earlier this year.
National Commissioner of the Department of Correctional Services, Mr Makgothi Thobakgale, acknowledged ongoing challenges related to disciplinary cases within the management area.
“We currently have approximately 130 disciplinary cases across the Department, with 65 linked to the Drakenstein Management Area. This places strain on operations, as suspended officials are not available for duty. However, we are working to finalise these matters in line with applicable government prescripts,” he said.
The National Commissioner further highlighted infrastructure constraints, particularly the limited capacity of the facility’s hospital in the context of overcrowding. Measures are being implemented to strengthen healthcare services, including increasing the number of nursing staff.
The oversight visit reaffirmed the Portfolio Committee’s commitment to supporting the Department in strengthening security, improving infrastructure, and advancing rehabilitation efforts within correctional facilities.