by
Stefania Tallei

In Africa

Guinea Conakry

In Guinea Conakry, the capital, some persons of the Community make weekly visits to more than 600 prisoners. The prison, situated near the ocean, has a high level of humidity especially during the rainy season. 

The penitentiary is divided into different sections: political prisoners, common criminals, men, women minors, the sick. In the prison one encounters situations of extreme poverty; 40% per cent of those imprisoned come from neighbouring countries (Sierra Leone, Liberia) and speak English or indigenous languages. Others came to the capital from the hinterland, seeking for job and study opportunities. The poorest are also illiterate and speak only local dialects, with the consequent difficulties of communication. It could happen, therefore, that the families never even know of the detention.

Among the sick prisoners there is a high death rate and the possibility of being treated is rather scarce, much more so because there is not a qualified nurse on duty.

There have been many people sentenced after having been accused of petty thefts. In these cases, it would be possible to be released after having paid back the debt, but while the debtor is in prison, there is no way for him/her to earn the money to make restitution. For this reason the members of the Community also carry out an important role of mediation by going to speak with creditors so that the imputation of many inmates may be removed.

The photos show some of the work carried out by the Community within the Conakry prison.  Food distribution.

The food provided by the penitentiary administration is scarce and of poor quality. Those who do not have relatives who provide them with supplementary rations, often suffer from malnutrition. Our weekly visits are always accompanied by the distribution of food.

For the past four years a dinner, followed by a celebration has been organised on Christmas day. 

In addition to food, we also bring some clothing, sleeping mats and a friendly presence.

The intervention of the Community volunteers in the prison ministry has contributed toward bettering their situation, especially that of minors and the infirm. For some time now we have also obtained permission to have the minors attend the school within the penitentiary.