Overcrowding and costs: Inside South Africa's prison system

As South Africa continues to grapple with overcrowded correctional facilities, the government is working to balance rehabilitation, constitutional obligations, and financial and operational constraints.

According to Department of Correctional Services spokesperson Singabakho Nxumalo, the state currently spends an estimated R13,500 per prisoner per month, though this varies depending on the offender category.

He explained that two main groups exist within the system: remanded offenders who are awaiting trial, and sentenced offenders who are serving their prison terms.

“The cost for remanded offenders is lower because they don’t participate in programmes, whereas sentenced offenders have access to rehabilitation programmes, which incur additional costs.”

Despite challenges with overcrowding and resource constraints, he emphasised that prisoners retain certain basic rights.

This includes access to food, water, and medical care, but strict limitations, such as the loss of freedom of movement, remain.

“Our constitution is very clear, every human being must be treated with dignity, regardless of their circumstances,” he said.

Nxumalo acknowledges that prisoners may be in a better position than other South Africans living below the poverty line regarding guaranteed shelter, nutrition, and educational opportunities.

He explained that it is a complex issue, which the department is working to address.

“We are trying to be self-sufficient by providing services like farming and workshops, which help offset the costs,” he said.

To listen to Nxumalo in conversation with 702’s Clement Manyathela, click the audio player below: