Prisoners run thriving organic farm
It is part of Dubai Police strategy to educate inmates and develop their skills and ideas
Dubai Police strategy seeks to educate inmates and develop their skills and ideas to integrate them in society when they complete jail terms |
An organic farm is hardly what one would expect to see inside a jail. Nevertheless, this is exactly what Gulf News came across inside the Dubai Central Jail in Al Aweer. It’s a concept that has been initiated and maintained by jail inmates as they work enthusiastically amid the lush greenery.
This innovative idea is part of a Dubai Police strategy to educate the inmates and develop their skills and ideas, to integrate them in society when they complete their prison sentences.
The inmate behind the idea said he couldn’t believe it had been developed into a thriving project inside the jail.
“This is a new revolution in self-farming technology. We used a fish tank linked to another tank to collect the fish waste which is then fed to the plants. The plants in turn clean up the water which is the recycled back to the fish. This technology is the solution to combat climate change and rising food prices. It allows us to farm affordable organic products,” the inmate said.
The project depends on the ‘perfect circle of life’ to produce organic fertiliser. The farm does not need to change the water as it is purified automatically with filters.
Supporting ideas
On hearing his innovative idea, Dubai Police provided the inmate with proper tools and supplies to start the organic farm a year ago. They even helped train other inmates in organic farming techniques.
Brigadier Ali Al Shamali, Director of Correctional and Punitive Establishments Department, Dubai Police, said they were keen to give a chance for inmates to develop their ideas and suggestions on how spend their time in jail.
“We provide anything they need to implement their projects and support any new idea. Any inmate can send a request for what he requires and what he is willing to do and we consider it seriously and implement it based on our resources,” Brigadier Al Shamali said.
Many inmates participate in activities such as craft workshops and sports in the central jail.
Meanwhile, the inmate behind the organic farm thanked Dubai Police for their support.
“There is always a moment in life when you feel it is all light. I want to thank Dubai Police for helping me see that,” he said. to