Namibians in SA jails may soon come home

Namibians serving prison sentences in South Africa could in future complete their jail sentences in Namibia after the two countries signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) last week.

The agreement, signed on Friday during the fourth session of the South Africa–Namibia Bi-National Commission, establishes a framework for cooperation between the two countries' correctional services aimed at facilitating the interstate transfer of sentenced offenders.

Under the MoU, prisoner transfers are still subject to legislative changes in South Africa before they can begin.

According to South Africa's department of correctional services, the agreement will allow sentenced offenders to serve their prison terms in their countries of origin, where family and community support can aid rehabilitation, while also easing pressure on prison populations.

Broader plan

The development follows Namibia's efforts to advance similar arrangements within the Southern African Development Community (SADC).

Safety and security minister Lucia Iipumbu told parliament last year that 69 Namibian citizens were serving prison sentences across SADC member states as of 17 February 2025.

The minister said the figure increased the need for the SADC protocol on the interstate transfer of sentenced offenders, which would allow prisoners to complete their sentences in their home countries.

In 2022, Namibian Sun reported that 22 Namibian nationals were incarcerated in South Africa at the time. Transfers were not possible because no bilateral agreement existed between the two countries, South Africa explained.

SA's minister of correctional services Pieter Groenewald said proposed amendments to South Africa's Correctional Services Act have already been drafted and are before the National Council before being introduced to parliament.

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