Gibbie Nawa (1955-2010): an Appreciation

By Fraser Bryans - March 29th, 2010

It is with regret that we have to announce the death of Gibbie Nawa, Commissioner of Corrections in Zambia. Those of you who knew Gibbie Nawa will know that his death marks the passing of a truly inspirational correctional leader who will be long remembered not only for his professional achievements but also for his personal kindness, his humour and his truly infectious smile.

As Commissioner of Corrections, Gibbie Nawa has been hugely influential in advancing the professionalism of corrections not only in Zambia but also in Africa, through his work firstly with CESCA and, more recently, his pivotal role in the formation of the African Correctional Services Association (ACSA). Ironically, it was while at an ACSA Conference in South Africa that Gibbie Nawa fell ill and was rushed back to Zambia where he died.

Gibbie Nawa”s contribution and influence has also been felt more widely on the international stage where he was widely known and admired for his sincerity, his compassion, his humanity and his thoughtful approach to improving the way we as correctional professionals go about our business. Gibbie will be missed by many in the Association.

Gibbie Nawa joined the Prisons Service as a Prison Officer in 1975. As a result of his exceptional talents, he rose to the position of Commissioner in 2007. As Commissioner, Gibbie Nawa demonstrated many leadership skills which resulted in initiatives such as ranching, fish farming and poultry farming being undertaken by the Service.

President Banda, the Zambian President speaking of the late Commissioner, urged the Prison Service to continue where Gibbie Nawa had left off so that there was continuity in the programmes and projects from which the Service and the Zambian nation stood to benefit.

The President continued by saying that during Mr Nawa”s time as Commissioner, the Prison Service in collaboration with other correctional Services in Africa and other parts of the world endeavoured to align its penal institution to modern standards.

Gibbie Nawa was born in 1955 in Kazungula, Zambia and after he finished school, he joined the Prisons Service where he rose through the ranks until he was appointed commissioner.

Gibbie Nawa is survived by a wife and nine children.



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