PACEM HAVENS FOUNDATION Engages UNAFRI on Rehabilitation and Reintegration
The Visit
On the morning of November 3rd, I, together with members of the Board of PACEM HAVENS FOUNDATION, led by Hon. Cris Rwakasiisi, visited the United Nations African Institute for the Prevention of Crime and the Treatment of Offenders (UNAFRI).
Hon. Cris Rwakasiisi is a former government Minister who spent 24 years in prison, including time on death row, and now serves as a Senior Presidential Advisor. PACEM HAVENS FOUNDATION is a non-governmental organization founded by individuals formerly on death row and is dedicated to supporting the rehabilitation and reintegration of ex-prisoners into society.
The delegation was received by UNAFRI Director General, Dr. Edouard Kitio.
Key Discussions
During the meeting, the delegation discussed several key issues with UNAFRI, including post-release offender support, the development and management of halfway homes, and the wider use of restorative justice approaches.
Further deliberations focused on the rehabilitation and transformation of ex-inmates, strategies to reduce recidivism, and the complex challenges former prisoners face when reintegrating into their communities. Both organizations acknowledged persistent barriers such as accessing employment, reconnecting with families, and overcoming stigma linked to incarceration.
Collaboration and Way Forward
In response to these challenges, UNAFRI and PACEM HAVENS FOUNDATION agreed to collaborate on initiatives involving training, research, and targeted support for current and former offenders.
This partnership aims to promote meaningful change within the criminal justice system, ensuring that offenders have real opportunities for rehabilitation and successful reintegration, while also advocating for fairness and justice within the legal framework.
Magara Shadrack | Founding Director