By Jones Gadama
The Malawi Prison Service has introduced an innovative rehabilitation program that uses chess to transform the lives of inmates.
The program, known as “Chess for Freedom,” combines a workshop with a continental championship, aiming to instill discipline, critical thinking, and emotional stability in prisoners.
According to Commissioner of Prisons Bazirial Chapuwala, the service is shifting its focus towards correction and rehabilitation. “Chess fosters essential skills that help inmates reintegrate into society,” Chapuwala said.
The program is a collaboration between the Malawi Prison Service, the International Chess Federation, and the Dadaz Chess Academy.
It marks a significant milestone, being the first continental championship of its kind to be hosted in Malawi.
Andre Vogtlin from the International Chess Federation highlighted the impact of chess, saying it can bring people together and transform lives.
Susan Namangale, founder of Dadaz Chess Academy, noted that chess has reached 20 prisons in Malawi, with local teams participating in international tournaments.
The Chess Association of Malawi has welcomed the initiative, with Vice President Francis Kudzula expressing enthusiasm for promoting chess as a tool for rehabilitation and social development.
This initiative demonstrates the Malawi Prison Service’s commitment to rehabilitation and reducing recidivism rates.
By harnessing the power of chess, the service aims to promote safer communities and a brighter future for inmates.
