The symbiosis within civil society is comprised of many layers in the context of joint socio-economic growth and development, to this end; the involvement and participation of the members that have been sentenced for criminal offences is the foundation towards an inclusive community. The Lüderitz Correctional Facility hosted the First Servant His Worship, the Mayor Hon. Cllr. Phillippus Balhao at their facility on the 20th February 2025, received by the Acting Officer-in-Charge and Second-In-Command of the Lüderitz Correctional Facility Senior Superintendent J. Hafeni together with his management team. The LCF during their briefing to The First Servant indicated that, their focus is on rehabilitation through a variety of intervention programs inclusive of academic pursuits and that the facility is ready to assist in the envisaged expansion of the town; through the availing of their man hours with a few projects in town having been completed successfully by the Inmates under the supervision of the staff. Senior Superintendent Hafeni further added that, he would like to create the necessary awareness and sensitization of the programs offered by the LCF in which the community can participate in partnership with either the LCF, the Lüderitz Town Council [LTC] and the Office of the Mayor. The First Servant indicated that, through a Memorandum of Understanding between the LCF and the LTC would be a great asset to strengthen the co-operation between the two entities, whilst his Office remains open to assist offenders to reintegrate back into society with ease. The First Servant then invited the LCF to appear on the Council’s digital audio platform named “The Couch” to expand on the functions and operations of the LCF to further share details for the sensitization campaign to kick-start. The visit further formed part of the hand-over of cosmetics that included body lotion, soap and toothpastes donated by the Office of the Mayor to the Inmates, during this occasion the First Servant encouraged the Inmates to not lose hope, keep the faith and stay focused and that, their current situation is not their fate. The Inmates treated The First Servant to choral songs sung by various choir groups, in addition to expressions of gratitude vocalized by volunteered Inmates. A tour of the LCF was part of the visitation, where The First Servant had a bite of their locally baked bread whilst equally being exposed to their garden, where they grow unions and apples amongst a variety of fruits and vegetables. The Office of the Mayor is appealing for assistance to add deodorant, toothbrushes and additional toothpastes and soccer balls to be donated to the Office for further distribution to the LCF.
