According to the new criminal law, prisoners and those awaiting sentences will have the opportunity to work in the agriculture sector, with a unique incentive: for every month of work, their sentence will be reduced by three months.
This innovative approach, championed by President Ibrahim Traoré, prioritizes rehabilitation, agricultural development, and restorative justice. By providing prisoners with a sense of purpose and productivity, the government aims to reduce recidivism rates and promote social reintegration.
A New Era of African Values-Based Justice
President Traoré emphasized the importance of aligning the country’s laws with African values, stating,
“Henceforth, our prisoners will be working in our agriculture sector while their sentences are reduced. Our laws must represent African values.”
This bold initiative has the potential to transform the lives of countless individuals, while also contributing to the country’s agricultural development and food security.
A Model for Regional Reform?
As Burkina Faso paves the way for innovative prison reform, other countries in the region may take note. This groundbreaking approach could serve as a model for reforming justice systems across Africa, prioritizing rehabilitation, restorative justice, and community development.
