The department of the Malawi Prisons Service (MPS) has commenced the construction and renovation of modern isolation cells in the country’s selected correctional facilities.

According to a statement seen by this publication from the Prisons authorities, the project is being funded by the Malawi government under the Department of Disaster Risk Management.

Mpyupyu Modern Isolation Cell in Zomba

The development follows the outbreak of the novel Coronavirus which saw the country’s correctional facilities helpless due to lack of enough cells and space to accommodate affected inmates and protect other inmates including staff from being infected.

The modern isolation cells are being constructed in Mzuzu, Thyolo, Lilongwe and Mpyupyu Prisons.

For instance five modern Isolation Cells are being constructed at Mpyupyu Prison each with a recommended holding capacity of 20 prisoners.

Each cell has four big windows, two small windows, five big electrical bulbs, and two whirly birds, a ceiling made of steel, one toilet and one bathroom.

According to the statement, the cells have maximum security and good ventilation for safe and humane custody of offenders.