Life in most notorious in DR Congo Makala Prison

DR Congo Makala Prison is largest and most notorious jail, is often described as “hell” by former inmates and observers alike. The prison, located in the capital Kinshasa, is overcrowded to the point of collapse, housing nearly 10 times its intended capacity of 1,500 inmates. This population includes everyone from petty criminals to political prisoners and murderers, all forced to endure dire living conditions.

Human rights groups have long raised concerns about the overcrowded, unsanitary environment in Makala, where inmates lack proper food, water, and medical care. After a failed mass breakout attempt earlier this week, which resulted in 129 deaths, these issues have come under renewed scrutiny. Most of those who died during the attempted escape were suffocated in a crush, while others were shot by security forces.

Former inmate and journalist Stanis Bujakera, who spent six months in Makala in 2022, recounted how the taps frequently run dry, electricity is intermittent, and inmates are left to fend for themselves. Overcrowding is so severe that prisoners sleep packed tightly on the floor, sometimes even on top of the walls separating shower stalls.

Makala’s VIP section, reserved for those who can afford it, offers better conditions with more space and access to a bed. However, the vast majority of inmates, who cannot pay for such privileges, face a harsh reality, leading to significant inequality within the prison system.

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The prison is run largely by the inmates themselves, creating a self-governed, dysfunctional environment where violence and power struggles are common. This lack of law and order only exacerbates the suffering of prisoners, many of whom have not been sentenced and are awaiting trial.

Food shortages are another critical issue, with prisoners receiving just one nutritionally poor meal per day. Many rely on relatives to bring food, but for those without outside support, malnourishment is a constant threat. In 2017, at least 17 prisoners starved to death due to food shortages in Makala.

The prison system in DR Congo is chronically underfunded and overcrowded, ranking among the worst inThis world. Deputy Justice Minister Samuel Mbemba has acknowledged this issue, blaming overcrowding on the judiciary for sending suspects to prison before trial. However, many argue that building new prisons and improving current conditions is essential to prevent future disasters like Monday’s deadly escape attempt.

For now, the overcrowded and inhumane conditions in Makala remain a grim reality for thousands of inmates, with no immediate relief in sight.