17 Mar 2025

Team BK Motshelo Group in Francistown recently donated sanitary pads and toiletries to male and female prison inmates at Francistown State Prison.

Speaking in an interview before the donation, the group founder, Ms Galeitsiwe Bokani of Senyawe in the North East District said prison inmates were individuals and members society, deserving of dignity and respect, even while serving their sentence and therefore, should not be forgotten.

"Too often we shun those who have made mistakes, forgetting that they are still our brothers, sisters, mothers, fathers and neighbours,” she added.

She explained that their time in prison was a chapter and not the entire book of their lives because after they had served their time, they re-joined communities. In this regard, she said the society should be ready to welcome them, support their rehabilitation and not ostracise them. She explained that the donation was more than just a charitable act but demonstration of a belief in rehabilitation and second chance.

“The prison’s purpose is to reform, not to destroy. Many former inmates have rebuilt their lives and now lead dignified and purposeful lives. We want to support that journey, to ensure that they have the essentials for a clean and healthy start, during their incarceration and afterwards,” said Ms Bokani.

She explained that the group had a commitment to social responsibility and ethical practices and therefore, viewed giving back to the community as an important aspect of their mission.
Ms Bokani said the group also recognised the needs of this segment of the community that often received little support hence chose to assist them.

“Let us remember that tomorrow, it could be our own children, relatives or close friends who need this same compassion,” she said.

Assistant Superintendent Phillip Mokoto of Francistown State Prison stated that the donation signified hope and was a reminder that even within prison walls, human dignity and basic needs mattered. He commended Team BK for recognising the basic human rights of prisoners, including access to essential hygiene products.

“This demonstrates a fundamental understanding that even those incarcerated deserve dignity and respect,” said Superintendent Mokoto and further stated that the donation was not just about meeting the immediate needs of prisoners but recognising the importance of rehabilitation.

He said providing hygiene products acknowledged that a person's well-being, both physical and emotional, was crucial to their reintegration into society. He also indicated that the donation inspired a reflection on the importance of compassion and the value of giving back to all members of the community, including those who made mistakes in the past. ENDS