Luzira Women's Prison

Yesterday I went along with Bea, an APP staff member, to solidify plans for a knitting course at the Luzira Women's Prison. It was my first real glimpse of how APP's relationship with prison staff works.

The dynamics of working in a prison is interesting anywhere, but when in a foreign country, you not only have to navigate the hierarchy and strict structure of prison, you must navigate the novel culture. In Uganda, prisons are run by the military. The guards live on the grounds in very modest conditions, wear military uniforms, and are trained in a military fashion.

The hierarchy in prisons is very strong and the word of your superior is very strong. Therefore, nothing can be accomplished without permission from those at the top of the hierarchy, which can be difficult to obtain.

Additionally, we are working in Africa where it seems as though things move at a slower pace with less assistance from emails. It can be quite frustrating and very trying.

Nonetheless, APP has accomplished great things in Ugandan prisons and continue to bring meaningful programs and resources to inmates. The knitting class is off to a great start. The women were enthusiastic and excited at the prospect of learning to knit, creating useful and possibly sellable goods, and learning a skill that may be helpful after they are released. Their energy was encouraging and their smiles contagious.