Nsawam Prison seeks urgent aid over medical debt, legal gaps

The management of Nsawam Medium Security Prisons in the Eastern Region is seeking financial help from the government. They need to clear debts owed to drug suppliers and the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS). Currently, the facility owes GH₵506,000 in NHIS claims and GH₵200,000 to drug suppliers for inmate medications.

Due to these financial issues, some officers use their personal funds for inmates' medical needs. This situation was shared by Deputy Director of Prisons Patrick Thomas Seidu during a visit from the Human Rights Committee of Parliament on May 19. He stated that they owe over GH₵200,000 for drugs supplied without payment.

DDP Seidu also mentioned a significant legal challenge for inmates. Many lack access to legal aid for appealing their sentences. He called this absence a serious human rights issue within the justice system.

"We do not have any legal aid in Nsawam," he explained. "In Accra, there are few lawyers available. How many can come here?" Inmates want to appeal but cannot due to limited resources.

James Agalga, Ranking Member of the Human Rights Committee, found this situation regrettable. He urged the government to act quickly in settling medical debts. Access to healthcare is essential for preserving inmates' rights and dignity.

Agalga emphasized that reforming inmates is crucial so they can reintegrate into society successfully. He noted that neglecting health services during incarceration is unfortunate and requires attention.

Regarding nutrition, Agalga revealed that the Finance Minister will review the current daily feeding grant of GH₵1.80 per inmate during the mid-year budget review.