Assessing Rehabilitation and Recidivism in Zomba, Mzuzu and Bzyanzi Prisons in Malawi

Abstract

This study explored the influence of rehabilitation programs on recidivism in Malawi, specifically focusing on the effectiveness of rehabilitation programs provided by the Malawi Prison Service. Despite ongoing efforts to deliver these rehabilitation services, recidivism rates persistently remain high. Assessing rehabilitation programs therefore highlights effective practices and areas for improvement in correctional facilities. This enables stakeholders to implement effective reforms towards Malawi’s vision 2063. The research was conducted across three major correctional institutions, encompassing maximum-security, female, and young offender facilities: Zomba Prison, Mzuzu Female Prison, and Bzyanzi Young Offender Rehabilitation Centre. The study employed a mixed-methods approach that integrated structured questionnaires administered to 212 respondents and 79 key informant interviews. The quantitative data was analyzed using SPSS version 27, while the qualitative data was analyzed using NVivo version 20. The study used regression analysis and aimed to assess three primary areas: (1) the offender treatment planning process during the admission phase; (2) the rehabilitation and treatment practices utilized during incarceration; and (3) the factors influencing the effectiveness of these rehabilitation programs. Grounded in Rehabilitation Theory, the findings revealed that while risk and needs assessments are generally conducted, their application is not consistent. Additionally, program participation rates remain low due to budget constraints, overcrowding and insufficient personnel. Significant statistical associations were identified between participation in rehabilitation programs and a decrease in recidivism, particularly in areas such as agriculture, vocational training, psychosocial counselling, and religious programming. This study enhances scholarly understanding by contextualizing rehabilitation within Malawi’s socio-economic and institutional landscape, underscoring the necessity to realign correctional policy towards resourceful, inclusive, and responsive rehabilitation strategies. The study further recommends establishing if the recidivism rate among offenders in Malawi, who undergo the programs, is, in reality, actually lower than among those who do not, as the model predicts.

Key words: Incarcerated offenders, Rehabilitation, Recidivism