Abstract
Alternative Sentencing Approach for criminal punishment in the criminal justice system in Africa has been advocated for and hence there is adoption of such in most African countries. However, the adoption of this approach is limited due to the existence of capital punishment which is the punishment for capital offences. This research work takes a step in explaining what capital offences and capital punishment are. This research work examines prison sentencing and non custodial sentencing, with the advantages of the non-custodial sentencing. The Evolution of the non-custodial sentencing in Africa is estoled in this Paper. However, application of non-custodial sentencing at different stages of criminal trial is examined. Finally, the research work considers how capital punishment constitutes a bar or a limitation to the adoption of alternative sentencing in Africa.
Keywords: Africa, Alternative sentencing, Criminal punishment, and non-custodial.