…. His Majesty champions compassion, redemption, and hope at Correctional Services Day 2025.
By Mbongeni Ndlela
MATSAPHA – His Majesty King Mswati III delivered a powerful message of hope, compassion, and transformation at the 17th Correctional Services Day, boldly affirming the nation’s commitment to redemption and second chances for all.
Addressing a packed audience at the Correctional Services College in Matsapha, the King declared, “Everybody deserves a second chance, regardless of the various reasons which bring them here.” This heartfelt statement became the heartbeat of the celebration, inspiring renewed national focus on rehabilitation and restorative justice.
The King lauded the strides made in Eswatini’s correctional system over the past 30 years, moving away from retributive approaches to a model that uplifts and transforms lives. He praised correctional officers for creating an environment that nurtures dignity, growth, and reintegration.
“We reaffirm our belief through character building that people can change,” said the King. “Redemption is not just a lofty ideal, but a tangible reality.”
A Milestone of Mercy and Transformation
The 2025 celebration was themed “Celebrating the Transformative Power of Second Chances: A 30-Year Milestone,” highlighting the remarkable progress Eswatini has made in its correctional philosophy.
The King emphasized that this evolution has brought hope to individuals and safety to communities.
Human-Centered Innovation
His Majesty also commended recent reforms and programmes, including a Wellness Policy, gender equality measures, and accessible healthcare services for both inmates and communities. He urged the department to integrate new technologies and maintain discipline through strategic policy updates.
A Call for Unity in Purpose
The King called on more partners, both local and international, to support the correctional mission, expressing deep gratitude to those already contributing, including donors of ambulances and other resources.
“We must work together and consolidate resources to meet the mandate before us,” he said. “A lot of work still needs to be done, and even more lives to be touched and impacted.”
Restoring Lives, Rebuilding Society
As the day unfolded with impressive displays and performances, His Majesty reminded the nation that the correctional system is not just about law enforcement, it is a bridge to a better future.
“Your duty is to promote a correctional environment that upholds human dignity, fosters personal growth and enhances public safety.”
Correctional Services Day 2025 served not only as a celebration of achievements, but as a renewed national vow to believe in people, forgive their past, and help them create a better tomorrow.
