INTERNATIONAL PRISONS CHAPLAINS ASSOCIATION OF GHANA MARKS 10 YEARS

The International Prisons Chaplains Association (IPCA) of Ghana marked its 10th anniversary with a durbar and exhibition at the ongoing International Prison Ministry Conference at the Gnat Hall in Accra.

The celebration, held on Wednesday, 23rd September 2026, marked the second day of the conference and featured praise and worship, thanksgiving, cultural displays, and reflections on the association’s decade of service to inmates, officers, and the Ghana Prisons Service.

Speaking on the purpose of the gathering, Rev. Peter Bilson, Eastern Regional Chairman of IPCA Ghana explained that the celebration was not merely to mark a date on the calendar, but to remember inmates and honour the biblical command to show compassion to those in prison.

He also thanked chaplains who travel to bring hope to inmates and commended inmates who had allowed themselves to be transformed. He described the 10th anniversary as a significant milestone, but stressed that it was not the end of the association’s work.

According to him, IPCA Ghana has become a voice for prisoners and continues to celebrate every reformed life.

Presenting a progress report, Rev. Steve Mensah, founder of IPCA Ghana traced the development of the association and revealed that IPCA currently operates in six regions, with plans to expand to six additional regions next year.

He noted that the association had strengthened its medical support for inmates, including organizing a medical screening at James Camp Prison and the provision of medical equipment in partnership with SOS International. The association has also supported inmates’ education and initiated anti-crime talks in senior high schools .

During the COVID-19 pandemic, IPCA supplied selected prison facilities with television sets to enable inmates to watch spiritual programmes.

He added that the association regularly intercedes for the Ghana Prisons Service, officers, inmates, and their families.

In a solidarity message, the Director of Prisons in charge of Health and Community Corrections DOP Joana Fofo-Tackie, on behalf of the Director General of Prisons, Mrs. Patience Baffoe-Bonnie, Esq., thanked IPCA for dedicating its time, resources, and efforts to supporting inmates. She recognized the association’s contributions to the welfare, rehabilitation, and reintegration of inmates, and continuous involvement in prison-related activities.

A special 10th anniversary award was presented to the Director-General of Prisons, Mrs. Patience Baffoe-Bonnie, Esq., in recognition of her leadership and support for prison ministry and the work of the association.

The anniversary celebration provided an opportunity to reflect on IPCA Ghana’s achievements over the past decade and consider its vision for the next ten years.