The Kumasi Central Prisons in the Ashanti region is harnessing the unique skills of its inmates after establishing a water manufacturing hub to produce sachet and bottled water.

According to officials, the facility has obtained accreditation and approval from the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) for mass production.

The water manufacturing plant, located in the Kumasi Central Prisons barracks in Adum, is employing the services of the inmates and other personnel of the prison to produce the water under hygienic conditions.

The project is part of the broader efforts streamlined by the prisons to equip and hone the vocational skills of inmates for future job opportunities should they gain their freedom.

Deputy Director of Prisons Services and the Ashanti Regional Commander of Prisons, James B. Mwinyelle, says proceeds from the sales would be used to support expansion works of the facility to allow more inmates to acquire skills.

“We train the inmates and also generate income. This will help the inmates start a living once they exit the four walls of the prison,” he noted.

The prison is also currently cultivating a vegetable farm in the region, where produce from the farm supports the prison’s kitchen to complement foodstuff for feeding.