| Prison Name: | Lilongwe Central Prison |
| Location: | Lilongwe, Malawi |
| Coordinates: | -14°N 68°W |
| Status: | Operational |
| Classification: | Maximum (male and female) |
| Capacity: | 2,500 |
| Opened: | 1910 |
| Managed By: | Malawi Prison Service |
Lilongwe Central Prison is a prison in Malawi located in Lilongwe District established during the colonial era. Lilongwe Central Prison has a maximum capacity of approximately 2,500 inmates, although it often holds more due to overcrowding. The prison population consists of male and female inmates, including those on remand and convicted prisoners.[1] [2]
Lilongwe Central Prison was established in 1910 during the British colonial era, with the aim of detaining and rehabilitating offenders from the central region of Malawi. The prison was built to address the growing need for a secure facility to hold criminals and political dissidents. Initially, the prison had a small capacity, but it has undergone several expansions and renovations over the years to accommodate the growing inmate population.
Lilongwe Central Prison is located in the capital city of Lilongwe, Malawi, along the Lilongwe-Kasungu road. The prison is situated in a secure area, surrounded by perimeter walls and fencing.
Lilongwe Central Prison has a range of facilities to support the rehabilitation and well-being of inmates, including:[3]
Lilongwe Central Prison has held several notable inmates throughout its history, including:[4]
The primary objectives of Lilongwe Central Prison are:
The aim of the prison is to contribute to the reduction of crime in Malawi by providing a conducive environment for the rehabilitation and reformation of offenders.
The vision of Lilongwe Central Prison is to become a model correctional facility in Malawi, providing effective rehabilitation programs and producing law-abiding citizens upon release.
The mission of the prison is to provide a safe, secure, and rehabilitative environment for inmates, staff, and the community, through effective management, efficient resource allocation, and collaboration with stakeholders.
Lilongwe Central Prison has several places within its premises, including:
Lilongwe Central Prison faces several challenges, including:
Despite these challenges, the prison continues to play a critical role in the criminal justice system of Malawi, with a commitment to rehabilitating offenders and promoting community safety.