To cut costs, the Department of Correctional Services (DCS) has introduced a new prison meal plan, much to the dismay of the inmates.
For the latest prison journalism news, bookmark The South African website’s dedicated section for free-to-read content
Inmates have argued that the budget cuts have come at the expense of their health and well-being, and that the food they receive is of poor quality.
Prisoners say they are lucky if they get soya beans and boiled eggs, with pap or dry bread.
However, DCS officials say the plan was designed by a nutritionist and includes pork, beans, eggs, beef, chicken, fish and giblets.
Kitchens are compliant
Chairperson of Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Correctional Services, Kgomotso Anthea Ramolobeng, told 702 radio on Wednesday that on-site investigators have found kitchens were compliant and inmates are served food three times a day.
She added that she has tasted the food on one of these visits and it is palatable.
“We have seen pork, we have seen beef, we have seen chicken, fish, eggs, bread,” Ramolobeng said.
Ramolobeng argued it’s unsurprising that inmates are complaining, as they are struggling with isolation from their families and respond in this way.
“They will always find something to complain about.”
Quick to criticise
The DCS is headed by Minister Pieter Groenewald, who has facilitated a crackdown on unlawful practices as well as cost-saving measures.
According to TimesLive, under the guidance of Groenewald, is hoping to save R200 million with its budget cuts.
According to reports, the department spends around R500 a day on each prisoners’ expenses.
Department spokesperson Singabhako Nxumalo told eNCA: “It is more than just a matter of costs involved. It’s about flexibility, so at least there is a variety rather than having to consume the same items.”
He continued: “These changes were carefully designed to align with dietary guidelines and ensure that the diverse dietary needs of the inmate population are adequately met. It includes a balanced mix of proteins, carbohydrates, fruits, and vegetables to support physical health and contribute to a positive rehabilitation environment”.
Money recuperated to be used elsewhere
According to Correctional Services, the money recuperated will be used elsewhere in the department.
Nxumalo added: “These savings will be redirected towards self-sufficiency and sustainability projects, enabling inmates to continue producing their own food, manufacturing furniture and uniforms, and engaging in other trades.”
In a statement last month, the Department of Correctional Services also disputed claims that prisoners would be “starved” under the new meal plan.
“These claims are misleading and do not reflect the reality within our correctional facilities. We continue to uphold our mandate of providing humane and dignified care to all inmates, while ensuring that their dietary needs are met”.
Social media remains unimpressed
Meanwhile, as reported by The South African website, social media users were quick to criticise the inmates’ complaints, labelling them “entitled”.
@Lingomso_labo: “Eggs are very expensive. They must change it and replace the egg with Imana soup.”
@Jonatha05697761: “That’s probably what the poor citizens of this country are eating with the R350 grant. I don’t think prisoners should complain. It’s not a hotel”.
@simphiwedlamin2: “Pap and gravy daily. We are talking about murders here. Some families are going through so much grief because of some of those criminals”.
Have inmates got a legitimate gripe?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1
Subscribe to The South African website’s newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
