Matsapha Correctional Centre’s Mdzimba Unit A hosted a Christmas luncheon for inmates on Wednesday under the theme “The Gift of Presence.” The event aimed to bring a sense of hope and belonging to incarcerated men, offering a reminder that even behind prison walls, Christmas is a time for reflection and renewed commitment to positive change.
The gathering, which carried the hashtag #Ngikhona meaning “I am here” was a plea from inmates to their families and friends to remember them during their time in custody. The event showcased the critical role that family support plays in rehabilitation and reintegration, with the emphasis on the value of human connection in the journey of recovery.
Generous support from various sponsors, including Bridal Heaven, 8bet, Hi Tech Investment, MAQALF, Pizza Club Manzini, Cert Water, BK Restaurant, Temsebe Investments, Multipurpose Distributors, and others, helped transform the unit into a festive and welcoming space. These partners provided decorations, food, drinks, prizes, and other essentials for the event. 
Assistant Superintendent Musa Tsabedze, Unit Manager, praised the inmates for their discipline, respect, and engagement in rehabilitation programs, including Gender-Based Violence (GBV) classes. He also acknowledged the positive impact of contact visits, which are crucial for maintaining strong family connections during incarceration.
Musical performances added to the festive atmosphere, with local gospel artist Nelly Siwela and jazz musician Itallo Dlamini entertaining the crowd. Inmates also performed traditional dances, including umbholoho, umgubho, and sibhaca, showcasing their cultural heritage.
Five inmates were recognized for their achievements, including being the most disciplined, most improved, cleanest, and most dedicated. Four others were honoured for their skills in areas such as civil engineering, plumbing, and electrical work. This recognition underscored the importance of skill development in the correctional environment.
Reverend L.S. Msibi delivered a spiritual message, urging the inmates to embrace hope, repentance, and purposeful living based on scriptures from Ecclesiastes 9:4–5. Inmates expressed their gratitude for the support and connection they experienced during the gathering, with many pledging to fight GBV, sexual violence, gangsterism, and other forms of crime, committing to becoming responsible citizens upon their release.
Chief Assistant Commissioner Kenneth Nhlengethwa, who represented the Commissioner General of Correctional Services, LaMakhosini Phindile Dlamini, commended all sponsors, programme officers, and staff for their contributions.
