As part of Project Gateway’s striving for sustainability and self-sufficiency, the Issachar Trust was created in 2004, to raise funds which are then used to support community projects. One of the ways we do this is through Tourism. School parties, local people and overseas visitors are amongst the many people who visit The Old Prison to discover more about its history.

The oldest building within The Old Prison complex has been declared a National Monument. With National Lottery funding, we have developed the National Monument into a not-to-be-missed ‘state of the art’ Museum.

We have an interactive touch table which gives details of many of the well-known people who were incarcerated in the prison.  We have a ‘leper’ cell, as leprosy was punishable by imprisonment during the mid-1880s. Our exhibition space on the 1^st floor of the museum exhibits, roving exhibitions. The space has showcased The Gandhi Foundation, Ela and Kustuba Gandhi, Harry Gwala and others. We have also dedicated a cell of King Dinuzulu, giving the public information about the life and imprisonment of the King.

Building renovations have made it more accessible for tourists and those interested in spending time in the Museum. Artefacts have been placed in various cells and touch screen computers and other interactive technology has been installed. Why not book a tour of the Prison for your own group or organisation? Call +27 (0)33 845 0400

Project Gateway as its name suggests, has always been intended as a ‘Gateway’ for projects and individuals, rather than a place to stay forever, and over time the individuals and groups which have been cared for and nurtured are able to establish themselves as independent projects and are then ready to move on. This then allows others to come in so that they can also be mentored and developed. Past projects that have run their course or have become independent, are listed below. Some projects now running independently.

• Business Development Programme – providing training in business skills, marketing support and mentoring for entrepreneurs starting new businesses
• Community Care Project – tackling the HIV and AIDS problem in South Africa.
• Duduza- providing care for children affected or infected by HIV/AIDS
• Esther House – providing care, support and shelter for vulnerable women and their children who have suffered domestic abuse.
• Pregnancy Care Centre – providing counselling, advice, pregnancy testing and accommodation for women in crisis, in the last stages of pregnancy
• Rural Home Industries – training disadvantaged women in skills such as sewing, knitting, baking and basic healthcare in rural communities.
• Sunset Shelter
• Craft
• HIV Aids