Program delivery and its discontents: a case study of offender rehabilitation in a correctional center in Eswatini

Recidivism remains a persistent concern in the Kingdom of Eswatini despite the ongoing implementation of rehabilitation programs within correctional centers. This study investigated the systemic and operational barriers that undermine the effectiveness of these programs and explored participants’ perceptions of their successes and limitations. A qualitative case study design was adopted, using snowball sampling to recruit 24 participants from one correctional facility: 16 individuals with repeated offending histories, 4 junior correctional officers, and 4 senior officers responsible for program oversight. Data were generated through semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions and analyzed using thematic analysis. The findings indicate that rehabilitation efforts are constrained by inadequate government funding, chronic staff shortages, and low facilitator morale, all of which impede consistent program delivery. Post-release challenges, particularly limited employment opportunities, persistent societal stigma, and insufficient community-based support, further exacerbate the likelihood of reoffending. The study concludes that systemic constraints, rather than weaknesses in program design, constitute the primary obstacles to successful rehabilitation. It recommends increased governmental budget allocation and targeted support to strengthen staffing capacity, program resources, and post-release reintegration initiatives. These measures are essential for enabling His Majesty’s Correctional Services to fulfill their rehabilitative mandate and reduce recidivism.