Across many correctional centers in Sierra Leone, a large number of inmates are young people between the ages of 15 and 35. Many face not only legal consequences but also deep emotional, social, and spiritual struggles. Recognizing this need, Business With Purpose Sierra Leone (BWP-SL) is bringing hope, restoration, and purpose through its Prison Ministry.
In facilities managed by the Sierra Leone Correctional Service, many inmates are incarcerated due to drug use or related offenses, often linked to poverty, negative peer influence, and inadequate parental guidance. When young people enter prison, they lose their freedom and often their sense of identity and personal worth. Many begin to see themselves only as offenders rather than individuals created in God’s image, leading to shame, depression, and hopelessness. Many also lack practical life skills, spiritual grounding, and economic opportunities, making them vulnerable to reoffending.
Challenging living conditions—such as overcrowding, limited food supply, and poor hygiene—further hinder rehabilitation. After release, stigma and rejection make reintegration difficult.
BWP-SL Prison Ministry addresses both the spiritual and practical needs of inmates. Grounded in the Bible, the ministry offers prayer and Bible studies to help inmates understand God’s forgiveness and rediscover their identity and purpose.
In addition, BWP-SL is exploring missional business training for inmates nearing release, equipping them with discipline, responsibility, and a vision for self-reliance. This holistic approach tackles root causes of crime while preparing inmates for productive living.
Through outreach sessions, inmates receive encouragement, hope, and practical teaching. Many testify to renewed hope and a new spiritual journey. As transformation takes place, attitudes change, relationships heal, and future outlooks improve.
This impact will extend beyond prison walls—reaching families, churches, and communities. By preparing inmates for reintegration, BWP-SL Prison Ministry helps reduce reoffending and contributes to building safer, restored communities.
Teaching incarcerated men the Word of God.
Sharing Bibles at the Women’s Prison.
Standing with members of the officer corps at the Sierra Leone Correctional Service in Bo.
