Title: Empowering Women Ex-Prisoners: TPHF Seminar Recap
Introduction:
In a significant step towards rehabilitation and empowerment, the Tanzania Prisoners Hope Foundation (TPHF) recently organized a seminar for women ex-prisoners in collaboration with regional authorities. Held on September 13th, 2023, at the CBD Hotel in Dar es Salaam, this event aimed to address the challenges faced by female ex-prisoners upon their release. In this blog post, we’ll recap the key highlights and outcomes of this crucial seminar.
Seminar Participants:
The seminar brought together a diverse group of participants, including representatives from organizations such as Women Fund Tanzania Trust (WFT-T), TPHF, Segerea Prison, Regional Prison Office, Regional welfare officers from the RC office, National Microfinance Bank Limited (NMB), media representatives, and seminar presenters. The presence of various stakeholders highlighted the importance of this event.
Opening and Introductions:
The seminar commenced with a prayer, uniting attendees from different backgrounds. Women ex-prisoners introduced themselves, sharing their names and the duration of their incarceration. The CEO of TPHF provided an overview of TPHF’s mission and goals. Notably, the guest of honor, Ilala District Commissioner (DC), emphasized the significance of emotional intelligence for a successful transition to life outside prison and encouraged ex-prisoners to engage in entrepreneurship activities.
Challenges and Proposals:
Ex-prisoners shared their challenges, including the lack of policies guiding their transition into the community. They proposed the formulation of policies to ensure a smoother reintegration process. Additionally, a suggestion emerged to provide small funds to released prisoners to kickstart businesses, fostering self-sufficiency.
Women’s Rights and Empowerment:
A representative from WFT-T spoke on women’s rights, encouraging ex-prisoners not to dwell on their pasts but to focus on the future. She advocated for gender equality and urged them to pursue leadership opportunities. Support groups were proposed as a means of achieving collective development goals.
Entrepreneurship and Financial Literacy:
A representative from MADEO FINANCE LIMITED discussed entrepreneurship skills, emphasizing the importance of identifying community needs and providing solutions. The ex-prisoners were informed about accessible loans with low-interest rates, particularly when applied for as a group. They had the opportunity to ask questions and gain insights into entrepreneurship opportunities.
Emotional Counseling:
Rev. Ray Seng’enge, an experienced counselor and pastor, provided emotional counseling to the ex-prisoners. He stressed the importance of emotional intelligence, forgiveness, and giving the community time to accept them peacefully.
Financial Opportunities:
Representatives from the National Microfinance Bank Limited (NMB) educated the female ex-prisoners about available services and low-interest loans. Forming groups was encouraged, as it facilitates easier access to financial services.
Feedback and Conclusions:
After the seminar, ex-prisoners provided feedback through evaluation forms, expressing their positive experiences and the benefits gained from each session. The following conclusions were drawn:
Formation of an official and registered group for women ex-prisoners to receive support efficiently.
Continued efforts by TPHF and stakeholders to address ex-prisoners’ challenges, including counseling and relevant topics.
Request for financial support, with WFT-T encouraged to contribute through TPHF and other women’s organizations.
A strong urge for ex-prisoners to avoid re-offending to steer clear of prison life.
Conclusion:
The Women Ex-Prisoners Seminar organized by TPHF and its partners provided valuable insights and support to empower female ex-prisoners for a successful transition into society. As we work towards a more inclusive and rehabilitative approach to reintegration, let’s keep these lessons in mind and continue supporting the journey of these brave women towards a brighter future.
