KISORO: Authorities at Kisoro Government Prison in Kisoro District are grappling with the challenge of a severe shortage of inmates’ uniforms, a problem caused by the lack of sewing machines.
This concern was raised by the acting Officer-in-Charge of the prison, Ochom Emmanuel, who represented OC ASP Emory Yepusa on Saturday during the reception of donations from the Kabale Diocese as part of their Jubilee Charity drive. The donations included 400 kilograms of posho, 50 kilograms of sugar, and several boxes of soap, marking the culmination of Jubilee Charity activities across the six districts of the Kigezi Sub-region.
Ochom expressed gratitude to the Kabale diocese for their support but highlighted the urgent need for sewing machines to repair and make new uniforms for inmates.
“I want to sincerely thank the Kabale Diocese for extending this charity to us at the prison. However, I must inform you that we currently lack sewing machines. Most of the inmates’ uniforms are old and torn,” Ochom said.
He further noted the absence of indoor recreational facilities at the prison, which he said could help reduce stress, improve mental health, and aid in the rehabilitation of inmates.
“Indoor games such as badminton or table tennis provide both physical activity and mental stimulation. These recreational activities play a key role in rehabilitation, helping inmates develop critical thinking, decision-making skills, and positive habits for reintegration into society. Unfortunately, we lack these facilities, which poses another challenge,” he added.
In response, Rev. Fr. Joseph Sebatware, Dean of Mutolere Deanery, encouraged Mr. Ochom to submit a written request along with a quotation for the sewing machines to the deanery office. He assured him that efforts would be made to mobilize funds for their purchase.
“Do not worry. God is with you in whatever situation you are facing. I pray you put your trust in Him and allow yourselves to be reformed before your release,” said Rev. Fr. Sebatware.
During his homily, Kabale Diocese Pastoral Coordinator, Rev. Fr. Fidelis Ndagijimana, urged inmates to repent and seek forgiveness from God.
“Everyone faces challenges. Before coming here, we visited the sick in nearby hospitals, and many are suffering. Let me ask you—between being in a hospital and being in prison, which would you choose? Both need God’s prayers and mercy. Trust in Him and cast your burdens upon Him. Those who are cursed will be set free once they believe,” he told the inmates.
He also called on inmates to treat each other with kindness and foster a spirit of brotherhood and sisterhood, rather than mistreating fellow inmates.
The team of priests also visited patients at Kisoro Hospital and St. Francis Hospital Mutolere, where they celebrated Mass and prayed for healing and divine guidance. At St. Francis Hospital Mutolere, Rev. Fr. Ndagijimana explained that the theme “Pilgrims of Hope” was chosen by Pope Francis in response to global crises such as wars, pandemics, domestic violence, and economic hardships that have caused despair among many Christians.
“The Jubilee Year calls upon Christians to dedicate their lives to Christ. When we accept and walk with Jesus, we are transformed. Though pandemics, wars, and other challenges may arise, they will not defeat us,” he said.
