US based non-profit organization NO LIMIT INTERNATIONAL donated gifts to inmates of the Monatele Principal prison in the Lekie division of the Centre region. The ceremony took place on July 26, 2022 in the prison yard in the presence of the prison’s manager and the gifts consisted of underwear and bras for women. The women prisoners expressed gratitude to the benefactors for their kind gesture. They stated that “the gifts are highly needed as it will go a long way to clothe them. Speaking during the ceremony, NO LIMIT INTERNATIONAL Co-Founder, Ms. Orlyanka Tantchou said she felt so empowered to be able to donate the items to the vulnerable population. “Women in prisons face stigma that is already detrimental to their mental and emotional states. We felt it was important for them to receive these donations that we all value in our own lives. We all wear underwear; it’s close to our hearts. 

No one should feel left behind because of their wrongdoings. We must still give everyone a sense of dignity and self-worth. Assisting women in prisons with basic clothing needs provides them with that mentioned sense of dignity and self-worth,” Orlyanka said. She added “to see these smiles on their faces and the excitement to have such basic needs covered makes me feel very happy to make a difference even in the smallest way”. She said their gesture was prompted by touching stories of some prisoners about hygiene and sanitation conditions in prisons. “We were so shocked and decided to help. Donating bras to these women is significant because it supports their body and promote body confidence as well as good health practices. Not wearing bras for an extended period could cause health related issues later in life that are preventable. They are a vulnerable population who needs attention and support. It’s important for them to not feel left behind” said Orlyola Tantchou, Co-Founder of the NGO. She added that soon, they intend to do more donations and provide access to vocational training opportunities for them.