19 August 2025 | 13:06 CAT
2-minute read

Correctional Services Minister Pieter Groenewald has announced an initiative aimed at reducing the financial burden on taxpayers by encouraging prisons to produce their own food and other essentials. This strategy comes in response to significant budget cuts and aims to enhance inmate rehabilitation.

In a recent interview with Radio Islam International, Minister Groenewald emphasised the necessity of this approach.

“I believe they must produce some of their food themselves. And the reason is we must save the taxpayers’ money.”

He highlighted that over the past five years, the department’s budget had been reduced by R11,7 billion, leading to challenges in maintaining security, providing adequate nutrition, and fulfilling rehabilitation mandates.

One of the key components of this initiative is the establishment of prison bakeries. The Westville Correctional Centre in KwaZulu-Natal recently inaugurated its 13th bakery, with plans to expand to 20 by 2028. These bakeries not only supply bread to inmates but also provide vocational training, equipping prisoners with skills that can aid in their reintegration into society.

Minister Groenewald also addressed concerns regarding the exploitation of inmate labor.

“[A] very, very important issue here is also…rehabilitation. You cannot have inmates sitting in cells, doing nothing, sitting there idle. So this is also part of rehabilitation.”

He clarified that the work inmates undertake is voluntary and serves as a means to develop skills that will assist them post-incarceration. The department ensures that all activities comply with South African labour laws and international human rights standards.

Another significant aspect of the minister’s plan involves addressing the presence of foreign nationals in South African prisons. Currently, approximately 26 000 foreign nationals are incarcerated, costing taxpayers over R11 million daily. Minister Groenewald is advocating for legislative amendments to facilitate the deportation of these individuals to their countries of origin.

“If they want to continue with their criminality they should do it in their own country.”

While these proposals have garnered support from certain sectors, they have also faced criticism. Critics argue that such measures may violate human rights and fail to address the root causes of crime. However, Minister Groenewald remains steadfast in his belief that these reforms are essential for the sustainability and effectiveness of the correctional system.

As the department continues to implement these changes, the focus remains on balancing cost-saving measures with the overarching goal of rehabilitating offenders and ensuring public safety.

Listen to the full interview on Sabaahul Muslim with Moulana Sulaimaan Ravat.