The Department of Correctional Services (DCS) has strengthened its commitment to community rehabilitation and disaster resilience through a community outreach initiative in Ncera Village, Eastern Cape, yesterday (16 October 2026).
The initiative formed part of the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction programme hosted by Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, where inmates and parolees established a vegetable garden for people living with disabilities and erected two tower gardens to support elderly women.
Eastern Cape Regional Commissioner, Mr Lucky Mthethwa, emphasised the importance of disaster risk reduction in correctional facilities, where people deprived of their liberty depend on the Department for their safety and protection during emergencies.
He highlighted that disasters extend beyond natural hazards such as floods, fires and severe storms to include crime, violence, community unrest and infrastructure destruction, all of which can threaten lives and disrupt essential services.
Mr Mthethwa said the theme, “Resilience Starts at Home,” resonated with DCS’s rehabilitation mandate, noting that resilient correctional centres contribute to resilient communities and safer environments.
The programme brought together traditional leaders, ward councillors, the liquor board, the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA), SAPS and non-governmental organisations. Gift of the Givers also supported the initiative by handing over food parcels to community members and children.
