By SYLVIA MWEETWA –

ACTING  President Inonge Wina says the construction of new prison cells and expanding the holding capacity of existing ones is a clear testimony of the Government’s commitment to resolving the congestion in prisons countrywide.
Ms Wina said it was clear that the Government was determined to improve the human rights  record in line with the international human rights instruments.
Ms Wina said imprisonment did not take away the rights of offenders but merely curtailed their freedom of movement and association.
Ms Wina was speaking in Kabwe during the commemoration of Africa Corrections, Prisons Day and recruits’ pass-out which was attended by neighbouring Namibia and Botswana at Prisons Training School in Kabwe.
She said recognising  the critical  role  played  by the correctional system  worldwide was cardinal and  assured them of appropriate  structures  needed  to  facilitate  the effective  rehabilitation  and reintegration  of prisoners into society.
She further challenged the recruits to be professional in their duties as indiscipline would not be allowed.
Home Affairs Minister Davies Mwila said the Government was committed to improving operational challenges faced by the prisons in the country.
Earlier, Prisons Commissioner General Percy Chato said the Government’s commitment to increase the number of prisons staff from the current 2,569 to 5,000 was a step in the right direction.