– provides inmates with valuable skills, sustainable food source
IN an innovative approach to rehabilitation and sustainable resource management, the Timehri Prison, in Region Four, has witnessed a remarkable success in its tilapia-farming initiative, yielding an impressive 230 pounds of red tilapia from its fishing pond.

The recent harvest, conducted on Wednesday, marks a significant milestone for the prison’s agricultural endeavours and underscores its commitment to providing nutritious dietary options for its inmates.

The harvested tilapia will be utilized to supplement meals across various locations within the prison system, supporting efforts to enhance food security and dietary diversity.

The decision to harvest the tilapia was prompted by the need to make room for a new batch, reflecting the prison’s ongoing commitment to sustainability and efficiency in its agricultural practices.

The tilapia project, one of several agricultural initiatives within the prison system, stands as a testament to the institution’s multi-faceted approach to offender rehabilitation and skill development.

Notably, female inmates at the Timehri Prison recently participated in a practical training session on tilapia rearing and aquaculture, facilitated by the prison authorities in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture’s Fisheries Department.

This initiative aimed to introduce another viable source of food for the prison population while equipping inmates with valuable skills in aquaculture management.

The training session, a first of its kind at the prison, focused on essential aspects of tilapia rearing, including feeding and angling techniques, providing inmates with hands-on experience and theoretical knowledge essential for successful fish farming.

Spearheaded by the Satyadeo Sawh Aquaculture Station, the initiative serves as a pilot project of the prison’s comprehensive training module, designed to empower inmates with practical skills and vocational expertise.

The success of the initiative was evident in the substantial output of 36 pounds of red tilapia harvested the previous day, showcasing the effectiveness of the training programme and the dedication of both inmates and staff involved in the project.

Speaking on the initiative, Director of Prisons(ag), Nicklon Elliot, emphasized its significance in aiding prisoners’ development and fostering a culture of self-sufficiency within the prison community.

Assistant Superintendent of Prisons, Michelle Boyce, Officer-in-charge of the Timehri Prison, lauded the initiative for broadening the scope of rehabilitation programmes available to inmates, emphasizing its role in promoting positive behavioral change and facilitating successful reintegration into society upon their release.

Overall, the Timehri Prison aquaculture project stands as a shining example of the Prison Service’s commitment to rehabilitation and training programmes aimed at equipping inmates with the necessary skills and resources for a successful transition back into society, ultimately contributing to safer communities and a more sustainable future.