Successful Reintegration: Ex-Convict Thrives After Support from Prison Director and Community

In a heartwarming tale of second chances and successful reintegration, a former inmate of the Wa Central Prison, Omar, is now on a promising path, thanks to a collaborative effort between the Ghana Prisons Service, local government, and a compassionate tailor master.

Ing. James B. Mwinyelle, current Ashanti Regional Director of the Ghana Prisons Service, shared the story during his visit to Wa ahead of the inauguration of the Prison Cadet at St. Francis Xavier Minor Seminary, scheduled for Saturday, July 19, 2025.

During his tenure as the Officer-in-Charge (OIC) and Regional Commander of Wa Central Prison, Ing. Mwinyelle had taken a particular interest in Omar, a young inmate who demonstrated exceptional skill in tailoring. Describing him as disciplined, hardworking, and talented, the Director was moved to help secure a better future for the young man.

Recognizing his potential, Ing. Mwinyelle made an appeal for support. The then Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) of Wa, Hon. Tahiru Issahaku, responded generously by donating four sewing machines to the Prison. In a strategic decision, one of the machines was earmarked specifically for Omar, to be handed over upon the completion of his sentence, as a tool to begin his life anew.

In addition, Ing. Mwinyelle facilitated a partnership with a local master tailor, whose shop is located near the Wa Central Prison. The tailor agreed to take Omar under his wing and provide him with further training to sharpen his skills and ease his reintegration into society.

Years later, the vision has come full circle.

Returning to Wa for the Cadet event, Ing. Mwinyelle paid a visit to the tailor master’s shop and was thrilled to find Omar still actively engaged in his trade — focused, steady, and thriving. The once-incarcerated youth is now not just earning a living but also rebuilding his life with dignity.

“This is what successful reintegration looks like,” Ing. Mwinyelle stated. “To see Omar doing well, working with commitment, and continuing to grow — it makes everything we did worth it.”

The story stands as a shining example of what can be achieved when rehabilitation is taken seriously and when society — including local leaders and professionals — actively participates in giving ex-convicts a second chance.

As the Ghana Prisons Service continues to promote rehabilitation and reintegration, Omar’s journey offers hope and inspiration to many others walking a similar path.