By Michael Foli Jackidy
Ho (V/R), Oct. 30, GNA – The Kpando Local Prisons has emerged winner of the Volta Zone Choral and Jama Competition organised by the Volta and Oti Regional Command of the Ghana Prisons Service at the Ho Central Prisons.
The competition formed part of the Service’s “Think Prisons 360 Degrees Reset Agenda,” aimed at promoting unity, teamwork, discipline and inmate rehabilitation through music.
The event brought together officers and participants from the Ho Central and Kpando Local Prisons to showcase their musical talents ahead of the national competition scheduled for later this year.
Deputy Director of Prisons (DDP) Joseph Vuu, Volta and Oti Regional Commander of the Ghana Prisons Service, in a statement delivered on his behalf by Chief Superintendent of Prisons (CSP) Evans Abogro, Acting Second-in-Command of the Ho Central Prisons, described the initiative as an important platform for strengthening unity and cooperation among officers and inmates.
He commended the organisers, officers, and participants for their dedication and commitment to the competition.
DDP Vuu urged participating prisons to strive for excellence and uphold the values of unity, sportsmanship and fellowship, noting that the ultimate achievement extended beyond winning to building stronger relationships within the Service.
CSP Senam Bekui, Reception Officer at the Ho Central Prisons, said the Choral and Jama Competition was introduced under the “Think Prisons 360 Degrees Reset Agenda” as a special initiative.
He explained that the programme was being organised across all regions of the country and would culminate in the Ghana Prisons Service National Music Competition.
According to him, the initiative seeks to harness the diverse musical talents within the Service while using music to promote unity, rehabilitation, recreation and public engagement.
CSP Bekui said the competition provided a platform for officers and inmates to showcase their talents, strengthen teamwork, and contribute to the broader rehabilitation objectives of the Service.
Superintendent Isaac Nedzo, Public Relations Officer of the Kpando Local Prisons, expressed delight at his team’s victory, describing the achievement as significant given the limited time available for preparation.
He said the dedication and commitment of officers enabled the team to prepare adequately and deliver a performance that exceeded expectations.
“We did not know that we would be able to perform this way because we thought we had not prepared adequately. But when we came, we realised that we had prepared, and we are very happy that we came first,” he said.
Superintendent Nedzo expressed optimism that the team would build on its success and excel at the national competition.
He commended the Director-General of Prisons for introducing the initiative, saying it would help unite officers, boost morale and strengthen working relationships within the Service.
He noted that the programme highlighted the importance of recreational activities in supporting officers who often work under demanding conditions.
Superintendent Nedzo explained that prison duties frequently made it difficult for officers to find time for rehearsals, as they had to complete their official responsibilities before attending practice sessions.
He commended the officers for their sacrifices and determination in making the competition a success despite the challenges involved in balancing work and preparation.
He appealed to the leadership of the Service to continue supporting the initiative and provide the resources needed to strengthen future competitions.
Superintendent Nedzo said he was confident that with sustained commitment and adequate support, the Kpando Local Prisons team would deliver another outstanding performance at the national level.
GNA
Edited by Maxwell Awumah/Lydia Kukua Asamoah
Reporter: Michael Foli Jackidy