The Department of Correctional Services (DCS) held a thanksgiving church service to honour the Low-Risk Unit, formerly known as the French Prison, located at the Stade area in Port Vila. The event marked the end of more than six decades of service by the historic facility, which will soon be demolished due to structural damage sustained during the December 2024 earthquake.
The thanksgiving service, organised in partnership with the Vanuatu Christian Council (VCC), brought together stakeholders, partners, former inmates, and correctional families to thank God for His grace and to celebrate the lives transformed within the institution.
Built in 1960 by the French Colonial Administration, the Stade facility was originally used as a French prison during the Anglo-French Condominium (1906–1980). After independence in 1980, it was integrated into the unified Vanuatu Correctional Services (VCS) under the national government, shifting its focus from punishment to rehabilitation and reintegration.
Over the years, the Low-Risk Unit has housed both Ni-Vanuatu and foreign inmates, including Indonesians, Chinese, Australians, and New Zealanders. Many have since become productive citizens, demonstrating the transformative power of rehabilitation and faith-based programs.
In his remarks, DCS Director Johnny Marango confirmed that demolition will begin later this month, following the relocation of all detainees. A VT18 million contract has been awarded to Tulaet Projects Limited, a local construction firm, to carry out the work.
“This site has a long and meaningful history — from its time under the French administration, to the Vanuatu Police Force, and later as the Vanuatu Correctional Services,” Marango said. “While we say farewell to this building, its history will remain part of our national heritage forever.”
A message delivered on behalf of the Minister of Justice, Youth and Community Services, Hon. Job Andy, described the facility as a symbol of both confinement and transformation.
“Within these walls, many lives were changed through faith and rehabilitation. As we move forward, we honour this legacy and remain committed to building a modern correctional system that restores lives and strengthens communities,” the Minister’s message said.
The decision to demolish the building follows engineering assessments confirming severe structural risks after the 2024 earthquake.
The thanksgiving service not only marked the end of a historic era but also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to a humane, safe, and rehabilitative justice system.