7 new prisons handed to Koch authorities by humanitarian partners

BENTIU – A consortium of humanitarian organizations led by World Relief Organization officially handed over seven newly constructed prison facilities and a community court office, including dedicated women’s centers, to the Koch County Police Department on Tuesday.

This initiative significantly improves the living conditions for detainees and strengthens the justice system in the region.

Gatwech Wal, Legal Officer for World Relief Organization under the Reconciliation, Stabilization and Resilience Trust Fund (RSRTF) project, confirmed to Sudans Post on Tuesday the handover to both the Koch County Police Commissioner and the local police chief.

The RSRTF project, launched in 2019, has previously constructed women’s and youth centers in Koch town and a women’s center in Mirmir Payam.

“We have handed over seven newly constructed facilities,” stated Mr. Wal, “including detention centers, a renovated office, a community court, and women’s centers. This handover ceremony was attended by the Koch County Commissioner, community leaders, humanitarian partners, and police units.”

Wal further explained the project’s three focus areas: reconciliation, stabilization, and resilience and highlighted the pressing need for improved detainee conditions.

“Before the construction of these facilities, prisoners were held in containers, lacking proper ventilation and unfit for human habitation. Now, they are kept in safe and humane conditions within the new facilities,” he said.

Koch County Police Commissioner, Tut Wal Dang, expressed his gratitude to the humanitarian partners involved.

“The construction of these detention centers and three offices was funded and managed by the RSRTF project, beginning in 2022 and completed in December 2023,” he acknowledged.

“I appreciate the efforts of these partners. The new facilities provide a significant improvement for the well-being of detainees,” he added.

This initiative demonstrates the ongoing commitment of humanitarian organizations and local authorities to improve living conditions and strengthen the justice system in South Sudan.

The new facilities offer a more humane environment for detainees, contributing to their overall well-being and promoting a more just society for all.