Russian Delegation Commends Namibian Correctional Services During Visit

A Russian penitentiary delegation led by Lieutenant General Alexander Khabarov visited the Namibian Correctional Service, praising its low escape rate and effective security measures. Recommendations included a service dog training program for contraband control. The visit facilitated exchanges on rehabilitation strategies and features a trip to Heroes’ Acre to honor national heroes. This follows a similar Russian visit in October 2024, fostering collaborative correctional practices.

On February 26, a delegation from the Federal Penitentiary Service of Russia, headed by Deputy Director Lieutenant General Alexander Khabarov, completed a two-day exchange program with the Namibian Correctional Service (NCS). Khabarov commended the NCS for its impressively low escape rate, the positive rapport between staff and inmates, as well as robust security protocols in place. He proposed that the NCS might bolster its security further by implementing a service dog training program aimed at reducing contraband in correctional facilities.

The NCS remarked that the exchange facilitated a valuable sharing of knowledge regarding the management and operation of correctional systems. They clarified that there are currently no Russian prisoners held within Namibian facilities, nor are there any Namibian inmates imprisoned in Russia. The delegation also toured the Windhoek Correctional Facility, where discussions encompassed rehabilitation strategies, safe custody practices for inmates, and staff training and development.

The exchange program concluded with the delegation visiting Heroes’ Acre, where they honored Namibia’s fallen heroes and expressed condolences regarding the recent passing of His Excellency Dr. Sam Nujoma. Notably, this visit followed Commissioner-General Raphael Hamunyela’s trip to Russia in October 2024, during which a Working Program was signed to support the implementation of a Memorandum of Understanding on Corrections cooperation.

The visit by the Russian penitentiary delegation highlighted positive aspects of the Namibian Correctional Service, including effective security measures and inmate management. The engagement fostered valuable exchanges in correctional practices and signaled ongoing cooperation between the two nations. The delegation’s respect for Namibia’s achievements was further underscored by their tribute to national heroes, reinforcing diplomatic bonds between the countries.

Original Source: economist.com.na