KWAZULU-Natal Social Development MEC Nonhlanhla Khoza visited women inmates at Westville Correctional Centre today (April 24).

Khoza was joined by eThekwini Metro EXCO member Zamazulu Sokhabase, member of parliament Fikile Masiko and the leader of Progress Women, Weziwe Thusi.

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Provincial Social Development spokesperson Mhlaba Memela said the purpose of the visit was multifaceted, focusing on building strong family bonds and fostering reconciliation within communities affected by gender-based violence.

“Many inmates serving time in correctional facilities are connected to cases of gender-based violence that tragically resulted in the loss of their partners’ lives.

“These actions not only led to the separation of these individuals from their children but also left a profound impact on the families of both the perpetrators and victims.”

Memela said that the Department of Social Development, through its dedicated family unit, is committed to bridging the gap between parents incarcerated in correctional facilities and their children who reside outside.

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“By fostering stronger relationships and facilitating communication, the department aims to mitigate the social ills experienced by children who are deprived of the presence of their biological parents,” he said.

The MEC spearheads initiatives aimed at facilitating reconciliation between inmates and those affected by their actions, including the families of victims.

“This gesture of reconciliation is a vital step towards healing and rebuilding trust within affected communities,” commented Memela.

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