Department of Correctional Services (DCS) Commissioner, Makgothi Thobakgale, has been elected to the Board of the International Corrections and Prisons Association (ICPA).
The election took place this week during the ICPA Annual General Meeting at the Association’s 28th Annual Conference in Belfast, Northern Ireland.
“[This marks] an important achievement for South Africa.
“The appointment provides South Africa with an opportunity to contribute to international discussions on correctional practices, rehabilitation, human rights and public safety. It also creates a platform for sharing the country’s correctional experience and strengthening cooperation with international counterparts,” a DCS statement read.
The department noted that the election also comes at an important time, particularly as preparations advance for the 2027 ICPA Annual Conference to be held in Harare, Zimbabwe.
“For DCS, this achievement reflects the importance of international engagement in advancing effective and humane correctional practices. It also presents an opportunity to strengthen partnerships and contribute to the development of correctional services in Africa and beyond,” the statement concluded.
The election is for the 2026–2030 term.
– SAnews.gov.za
