Kumasi: The World Human Rescue and Advocacy Organization (WHRAO) has officially commenced its operations at the Ho Central Prison, urging collective action to enhance access to legal representation, rehabilitation, and reintegration support for inmates.
According to Ghana News Agency, the launch event, organized in collaboration with the Ministry of Youth Development and Empowerment, was themed 'Righting the Scales', signifying the organization's dedication to advancing justice and providing second chances for the underprivileged. During the event, Mr. Michael Asare, Chief Executive Officer of the Organisation, emphasized the group's core mission to offer legal representation to those unable to afford it and to provide skills training post-release.
Mr. Asare highlighted the organization's dual approach: securing freedom for the less privileged through legal support and equipping them with skills for societal reintegration. He shared that his personal experiences in the judicial system, witnessing the disadvantages faced by those without legal support, motivated him to establish the organization.
He appealed for collective effort, urging individuals, institutions, and organizations to contribute through donations and partnerships to expand the initiative's impact. Ms. Delight Modzaka, the Organization's Administrator, reiterated the advocacy visit's aim to reassure inmates of their support, stating that the team brought donations, including toiletries and essential items, to empower the inmates.
Ms. Modzaka announced plans for a follow-up visit with specific donations, such as sanitary pads and gender-specific supplies, to better support female inmates. Rev. Assistant Superintendent of Prison (ASP) Courage Atsu, representing the Volta Regional Commander of the Ghana Prisons Service, praised the organization's efforts and highlighted ongoing reforms under the 'Prisons 360 Degrees' initiative, focusing on inmate welfare and rehabilitation.
Rev. ASP Atsu pointed out the need for expanded vocational training, noting the prison's existing tailoring program and the demand for resources like industrial sewing machines. He appealed for support in vocational training, food, clothing, and medication for both male and female prisons.
Expressing gratitude to Mr. Asare, Rev. ASP Atsu recognized him as a friend of the Prison Service, commending his commitment to supporting inmates. As part of the launch activities, the WHRAO team engaged with inmates, offering encouragement and advocacy, and distributed donated items to address their immediate needs.