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NICRO calls for rethink of prison rehabilitation in South Africa

Published

The National Institute for Crime Prevention and the Rehabilitation of Offenders (NICRO) cites recent studies that put the reoffending rate between 86% and 94%. It also raises concern about overcrowded correctional centres.

Magda Reynolds, NICRO's Business and Development Manager, said limited resources make it hard to give offenders the support they need to reintegrate into society. She wants risk assessments to decide who needs prison and who could safely receive rehabilitation in the community.

Reynolds said about 96% to 97% of NICRO clients do not reoffend. She said this holds in follow-ups at three, six and 12 months after they finish its programmes.

Reynolds said: "Correctional centres should be for those who pose a threat to society. The rest of those, we need to see how we can help them on the outside."

Key facts

Who
Magda Reynolds (Business and Development Manager at NICRO); National Institute for Crime Prevention and the Rehabilitation of Offenders (Organisation calling for a rethink of prison rehabilitation)
What
The National Institute for Crime Prevention and the Rehabilitation of Offenders (NICRO) calls for a rethink of prison rehabilitation, citing recent studies that put South Africa's reoffending rate between 86% and 94%. Magda Reynolds, NICRO's Business and Development Manager, says limited resources hinder reintegration support and advocates risk assessments to decide who needs imprisonment.
When
28 October 2026
Where
South Africa
Status
Reported

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