Jeshwang Prison has been given a makeover with the construction of new dormitories to ease overcrowding in the prisons. 

The UNDP and GCCI funded 200 bed facilities were unveiled today.  

It was a joint project with the Gambia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI).

The new facilities will address the urgent congestion in Mile Two prison amid the coronavirus pandemic.  

UNDP Resident Representative Ms. Aissata De said “The innovative approach of the partnership with the private sector, such as GCCI was premised on the Agenda 2030 principle to leave no one behind, and this includes prisoners as well in the COVID-19 response. 

“This was vital to ensure that the detainees of congested Mile 2 were also spared from the fatal spread of the pandemic.”

Alieu Secka of GCCI said “Our early intervention in the prisons helped to reduce and prevent a Covid-19 outbreak in the prisons.”  

Ansumana Manneh, Director General of the Prisons Service, said “the year 2020 has been a very difficult year for the world, but thanks to UNDP and the GCCI it has been a progressive year for Prisons Service due to the newly built dormitories, PPE, renovation of infirmary.” 

The Prison Service was also provided a 30-seater and six months of fuel and maintenance. 

GCCI also distributed 100,000 worth of detergents and 10 handwashing stations to the prison facility.