Report Examines HIV/AIDS, Other Issues in Tanzanian Prisons

About 9.2% of inmates in Tanzania's prisons are HIV-positive, according to a recently released 2008 Human Rights Report compiled by the country's Legal and Human Rights Centre, Guardian/IPP Media reports. LHRC advocate Clarence Kipobota at the release of the report said that the situation in Tanzanian prisons is alarming, adding that there are no systems in place to aid HIV-positive inmates. He said, "There is no information on appropriate health facilities for people living with HIV/AIDS in prisons," adding that there are "no mechanisms designed to facilitate a convicted person's transition back into the society when they are released."

The report found that as of June 2008, there were 39,951 inmates in the country's prison system -- above the official maximum capacity level by 12,298 inmates. Kipobota said that although the country's Parole Board Act is in place and operational, the act is restrictive and therefore unable to help curb the overcrowding occurring in prisons. Retired Judge Edward Mwesiumo said the report should serve as a working tool to improve human rights in Tanzania (Philemon, Guardian/IPP Media, 4/28).

The report is available online (.pdf).

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