Dignity and hope for prisoners
through health, education and justice
African Prisons Project (APP) is a young charity founded to improve the welfare, health and education of detainees in Africa. We aim to restore the dignity of prisoners by providing humane conditions and improving welfare, access to medical facilities and the opportunity to learn. Our principal projects are the creation or refurbishment of prison clinics and libraries.
Africa is a continent in transition, and its problems are magnified within detention system. The plight of detainees is rarely noticed; therefore they receive little help from charitable organisations. Yet they include the most downtrodden and vulnerable - babies imprisoned with their mothers, the mentally ill, children and the illiterate.
In general, the conditions in African prisons are painfully poor. Many are severely overcrowded, lack sanitation and are unable to provide adequate nutrition. Access to books and education is limited or non-existent. Medical facilities are wholly inadequate. Few countries have universal access to legal representation, whilst many retain the death penalty and corporal punishment. Prison sentences can be significantly longer than in developed countries and it is not unusual to spend long periods in prison without trial.
Since its foundation, APP has been run by young volunteers - students and young professionals who want to make a difference. Increasingly we are supported by our advisors and partners. We provide school leavers and those from disadvantaged backgrounds with the opportunity to gain experience and skills by assisting a project in Africa. Our volunteers then act as ambassadors when they return home.
Welcome
Welcome to a preview of our newly redesigned website. While the site is being developed, we welcome your comments.
Death penalty appeal
Over 400 death row inmates in Uganda are challenging the legality of the death penalty. More...
Freedom Cry, a CD by Condemned Choirs
African Prisons Project have produced a CD of songs performed by Condemned Choirs, death row inmates in Luzira Prison, Uganda. Read more information about Freedom Cry.
Latest news
9 Mar 2008Death penalty challenge imminent
Uganda’s death penalty is currently being challenged by a landmark appeal brought by more than 400 death row inmates. More...
18 Apr 2008APP revs up with new car
APP has finally purchased a car so that volunteers in Uganda can be transported easily. More...
19 Mar 2008Energy expert visits prisons
Shoko Okamura of Better Generation, an independent renewable energy company, recently visited APP in Uganda. More...
4 Mar 2008APP newsletter goes live
The first issue of APP’s new quarterly newsletter is now online, produced by Adam Smith. The newsletter has news stories, features and more. Click here to download Letter From Africa.
25 Feb 2008Books shipment sets sail
APP today finalised the shipment to Uganda of a consignment of books, computers and humanitarian items. More...
14 Jan 2008Toby Brown commences new role
APP trustee director Toby Brown today took up a six-month post to focus on establishing the framework of the registered charity. More...
22 Nov 2007Alexander McLean wins 2007 Beacon Prize Award
On Thursday 22 November, Alexander McLean became the overall winner of the 2007 Beacon Prize Awards. More...