It  is worth noting that, the International Corrections and Prisons Association (ICPA), is a none-profit association for prison professionals founded in 1998 with a mission to promote and share ethical and effective correctional practices to enhance public safety and healthier communities worldwide. It is a non-governmental organization in Special Consultative Status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations (ECOSOC).

This year’s conference attracted close to 800 correctional professionals and experts from all over the world. ICPA rotates its annual general meeting and conference in different countries. To recognize outstanding progress and excellence with respect to its mission, particularly those achievements which advance humanitarian approaches and professional corrections, the ICPA established an annual Correctional Excellence Awards. It is in this context that in Australia 2015, Rwanda Correctional Service (RCS) was awarded an international trophy in the recognition for protecting environment by effective use of biogas in Rwanda’s Correctional facilities.

The theme for this year’s conference will focus on ‘’Humane Corrections: What more can we do’’, highlighting the importance of prevention programs and community-based alternative sanctions in the field of corrections’’ and by Rwanda attending the Conference, it is an opportunity for benchmarking on the know-how as well as acquiring Knowledge and skills in contemporary approaches, ideas and technologies in relation to rehabilitation and reintegration of inmates back to the society upon release from the correctional facilities.

Owing to the existing partnership between Rwanda Correctional Service and the International Corrections and Prisons Association (ICPA), we are glad to inform that Rwanda will host the 27th ICPA Annual general meeting and Conference from 26 – 31 October 2025. By hosting this very important event, Rwanda will be the second African country (after Namibia in 2014) to host the ICPA AGM and conference.