By Mohamed Abdi - Reporter
Somalia, Aug. 3 2026 – Somalia's Custodial Corps on Sunday graduated 60 inmates who completed literacy and vocational training in prison. Officials said the programme aims to rehabilitate prisoners and support their reintegration into society.
The inmates, who were serving sentences at Mogadishu's Central Prison, received training in literacy, tailoring and electrical installation. They are the first group to complete the programme, while a second cohort of 70 inmates was also enrolled during the graduation ceremony.
The programme is being implemented by the non-governmental organization KAALO Aid and Development Organization in Mogadishu, Kismayo and Baidoa. Officials said it aims to equip inmates with practical skills to improve their employment prospects after their release.
The ceremony was attended by Custodial Corps Commander Major General Mohamed Sheikh Hassan Hamud, State Minister for Justice and Constitutional Affairs Ilyas Sheikh Omar, Auditor General Ahmed Issa Guutaale and Banadir regional Deputy Governor for Security and Politics Mohamed Ahmed Diriye ‘Yabooh’.
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"A prison is not only a place of punishment, but also a place where a person can begin a new life by changing their behaviour," State Minister Omar said.
Graduates were also provided with work equipment to help them apply the skills they acquired once they complete their sentences and return to their communities.
Officials said the initiative forms part of Somalia's efforts to strengthen its correctional system by reducing reoffending and creating opportunities for former inmates to rebuild their lives through education and employment.