Twenty-one ex-offenders recently received a new lease on life, when they were given “starter packs” to start their own businesses.

It came as a result of the partnership between New Life After Prison Community Forum (NLAPCF), Correctional Services and private business.

The packs include welding machines, building scaffolding, carpentry machines, sewing machines, plumbing equipment and car-wash machines. these were handed over by Ms Nontsikelelo Joilingana, the prison's chief operational officer, NLAPCFofficials and Vhembe District Municipality's Chief Whip, Mr Tshifhiwa Dali.

The handing-over ceremony took place at NLAPCF’s halfway house at Ha-Mutsha.

Speaking during the handover, Jolingana said correcting the behaviour of offenders was a societal responsibility and that their behaviour should not only be corrected, but they should be fully reintegrated in to their communities. She said all had a responsibility of changing the behaviour of the offenders and to make them better citizens again.

"The starter kits will redeem their dignity and they will be able to create jobs for themselves and others. We can only urge the community to support their businesses," she said.

NLAPCF board chairperson Mr Watson Tshivhase, himself a former commissioner of correctional services, said he was excited that correctional services were coming on board. "We are requesting that parolees be brought to us, so that we can work with them and also train them," he said.

One of the parolees who benefitted, Mr Solomon Marima, who had served 11 years in prison, gave an inspiring testimony. "I only had Std 4 when I was arrested, but thought of using my time profitably while in prison by studying. When I was released, I was only left with five modules to complete my BA Communications degree through  the University of South Africa. I also did woodwork, and I am very glad that God gave me the breakthrough. I can testify that prison can change a person who is willing to change and be something in his community," said Marima.