The Minister for Youth, Religion and Community Development Jason Peter has paid a visit to Bihute Correctional Prison last week, as part of the Church Development Council program in Goroka, Eastern Highlands Province.
A delegation from the Youth, Religion and Community Development along with Minister Peter, Secretary Jerry Ubase visited the inmates on Monday, July 28th 2025, signifying the importance of Church-State Partnerships in helping rehabilitate inmates and supporting correctional staff.
Bihute Prison Commander, Superintendent Donald Apeti, welcomed the delegation and raised concerns about staff shortages, colonial infrastructures, and funding constraints.
Despite these challenges, he noted that the prison has recorded no escapes in the past seven months, due to strong prison management and Court cooperation.
Sergeant Kelly also said it was the first time such support had been shown to both men and women inmates.
Sergeant Gele urged more church and community support through life skills training.
Moreover, Minister Peter further thanked the Churches for their ongoing support and acknowledged their role in helping inmates find hope and purpose.
He presented gift packs to female inmates, including warm clothing, toiletries and supplies for a six-month-old male infant. Crutches were also given to the male inmates, along with a wireless speaker system for the facility
