By GABRIEL KATUHO
Jeffery Mol, also known as Mangi Last Percy, through LuckyBet777, donated K16,000 worth of essential goods to Bomana Prison yesterday (Wednesday 28 May).
The donation included toiletries, cutlery, tools, and other useful items for inmates and Correctional Service officers.
During the presentation, Mr Mol highlighted the outreach work he has carried out across parts of the Highlands Region and the National Capital District, visiting hospitals, prisons, and making similar donations with the support of LuckyBet777.
Mr Mol also took the opportunity to encourage inmates to become responsible citizens in their communities and the country once they complete their jail terms.
Bomana Correctional Institution Service (CIS) Commanding Officer, Chief Superintendent Yelly Oufa, thanked Mr Mol and LuckyBet777 for the timely donation, saying it would greatly benefit both inmates and Correctional Service officers.
Mr Oufa said support from the Government and partners had been limited. He compared Bomana with provincial prisons around the country, saying some provincial facilities receive support from provincial governments, enabling them to address internal issues.
He said Bomana Prison, being the largest prison in the country and housing more than 1,000 inmates, continues to face major challenges due to deteriorating facilities.
According to Mr Oufa, funding has remained a challenge in providing new uniforms for inmates and Correctional Service officers, addressing water supply issues, and maintaining ageing infrastructure.
“We have been seeking funding from partners but have never received any response from them,” he said.
“Many times, we see people making commitments publicly through the media; however, none of those have eventuated,” he added.
Mr Oufa also extended his gratitude to non-government organisations (NGOs) that regularly visit the prison and continue to support inmates and officers.
“Without support from MPs and the Government, your coming here gives us hope that the community stands behind us during these trying times,” he said.
He thanked Mr Mol and encouraged him to continue his efforts in giving back to the community.
Mr Mol also thanked Mr Oufa and the prison administration for allowing him to make the donation and acknowledged LuckyBet777 for sponsoring the initiative.