Experts with the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission (EHRC) warn that minimal and static rations for inmates in the country’s correctional system do not reflect rising market prices and cost of living, putting prisoners at risk.
The Commission issued a statement highlighting the problems following a round of discussions with officials this week in Bishoftu regarding the humane treatment of inmates. The Commission highlighted the correctional system in Oromia in particular, but rations vary from state to state.
“The government’s existing rationing allocation for prisoners, which is 41.60 Birr, is minimal compared to the current market pricing. Moreover, bills for water and electricity supply for the prison facilities are covered using this money. As the government has revised and increased tariffs for water and electricity, the portion of rations going to cover the bills is increasing, while the money going directly to prisoners is declining,” reads the statement.
The Commission warns the shortfall is leading to a lack of a healthy diet among inmates, deficits in medical treatment, educational materials shortages, and saturated dormitory facilities. It also cites the absence of separate facilities for maternal, child, and elderly inmates as serious concerns.
On the other hand, EHRC reports improvements in the supply of inmate uniforms.
Ijara Garedew, deputy commissioner for Oromia Correctional Facilities, says the regional administration is working to resolve the problems using its own resources as well as support from partner organizations.
The statement reveals the Commission and stakeholders have reached an agreement to work on a new action plan to resolve the challenges raised during the discussion.
According to recent reports, federal inmates receive a daily food allowance of just 35 Birr—about USD 0.26. In regional prisons, the amount varies widely: 100 Birr in the Somali region, 55 Birr in Amhara, and 46.60 Birr in Oromia.
According to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, Ethiopia’s prison population exceeds 120,000, or about 99 per 100,000 people. Women account for roughly four percent. The country has 126 prisons—six managed federally and the rest by regional authorities.
Various studies and reports indicate that inmates in Ethiopia face malnutrition and a range of food deficiency issues.
Bedasa Lemesa, acting director of follow up and investigation at EHRC, urged the government to focus on maintaining the improvements attained in the treatment of prisoners, and work to bridge the deficits reported.
