Matsapha – Thirty one years ago, His Majesty King Mswati III announced the name change of Swaziland Prison Services to the current His Majesty’s Correctional Services (HMCS).
It has shifted the institution’s focus for the better from punishing to rehabilitating convicts. It was also intended to reduce recidivism, follow a human rights approach, facilitate reintegration, and increase security.
“It has been 31 years since His Majesty the King ordered that it must change from being a jail to a rehabilitation department,” Prince Simelane, Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs said. 
“My king, the name was discriminating. It would frighten citizens. However, when they indicate they are from a rehabilitation facility, they are well received. We are grateful for the name change,” the minister stated.
The minister said there was transformation in the organization and appreciated government funding. He added that the HMCS now uses drones to track detainees, as well as horses, trucks, and tractors purchased with government funds for security purposes. The minister called for an increase in their fleet.
The HMCS stated that despite these advancements, difficulties still exist. The facilities’ structures are outdated and in need of repair, and there is congestion. The minister stated that their prison population is overcrowded, posing a risk of disease spread. Also, the number of officers is disproportionate to the prison population, and their housing is in short supply.
