Female inmates at the Middleburg Correctional Centre in Mpumalanga have expressed mixed feelings about Women’s Day, with some saying the day reminds them of the important roles they should play in society, once they have finished serving their sentences.
The SABC’s Ligwalagwala FM organised the commemoration held at the Middleburg Correctional Centre.
Some of the female inmates at the Correctional Centre believe the day should be used to highlight challenges women face, especially gender-based violence.
“We are also women, even if we are here. Our mistakes don’t mean we are not women enough to celebrate this day. I feel loved, especially by being recognized. It’s Women’s Day, it’s very, very painful being here whilst people are outside celebrating. We are enjoying right now, but very soon we’ll be locked up, and it’s just very painful.”
[WATCH] Female inmates are set to showcase their talents and share their personal stories as part of Women’s Day commemorations. This is part of the Women Behind Bars activation, hosted by Ligwalagwala FM at the Middelburg Correctional Centre. SABC News reporter Nhlanhla Jele is… pic.twitter.com/zeqqHmULS1
— SABC News (@SABCNews) August 9, 2025
SABC’s Regional Operations Manager, Lungile Nduvane says the main aim is to ensure that the voices of women behind bars are also heard.
“It’s very important for us to see their journey as they are becoming more rehabilitated and so that when they get into society, they know that they are appreciated. So we’re just here to appreciate them and appreciate their journey. Understanding that in life, everybody makes mistakes, but we can rehabilitate ourselves, become better people, and go back into the communities. So the significance of this day is really to just celebrate the ladies who are here in this facility.”
The Department of Correctional Services spokesperson, Singabakho Nxumalo, says such events help inmates to stay positive.
“A person behind bars is still a human being; that person is able to make a positive contribution to society, and many have done so. So, as Correctional Services, we are saying it’s a day that has to be honored and the message to female offenders in particular is that it’s not over, there’s still an opportunity, you can still change your life.”
The inmates also showcased their handwork, such as bead crafts, artwork and clothes.
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