Born Behind bars…Inmate gospel group finds success after amnesty

Givemore Muzariri

SINCE its 2013 reformation, the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS) has placed a firm emphasis on vocational training, providing inmates with the tools to reconstruct their futures. By forging partnerships with recognised examination boards, the ZPCS now facilitates accredited certifications, significantly boosting post-release employability. Bhekimpilo Maphosa’s story stands as proof of this. Convicted in 2014 for the theft of copper cables, Maphosa seized the opportunity for rehabilitation, dedicating himself to gospel music and personal development, showcasing the profound transformative potential of ZPCS initiatives.

“Before prison, I was an ‘umalayitsha,’ trading between South Africa and Zimbabwe. As our business grew, we realised the profit margins were too small to support ourselves and our families. We decided to seek more lucrative side ventures while continuing our trading. Eventually, we discovered some associates were involved in copper dealings, and we began targeting copper cables in Bulawayo and its surrounding areas.”

Maphosa recounted that they operated for over two years without police intervention, until a dispute with a partner led to their betrayal and subsequent arrest in Nkulumane suburb.

Following a tip-off, the police tracked their movements, apprehending them as they prepared a consignment for transport to South Africa.

“I never understood how damaging a dispute with a business partner could be. It cost us our freedom. On the day of our arrest, we collected our goods along Harare Road and took them to Nkulumane to sort them. Unbeknownst to us, we were being followed. As we packed the trailer, we heard a knock at the gate. Moments later, we were surrounded by armed officers. That’s when I knew we had been betrayed.”

Ten members of the group were arrested, and the case garnered significant public attention. During their remand at Bulawayo Prison, also known as Grey Prison, the gravity of their situation became apparent.

“While on remand, we faced lengthy court hearings. It was clear we were facing substantial prison terms. Our sentence was handed down at 7 pm: 60 years in total, shared among the ten of us, meaning six years each. At first, I thought my life was over,” Maphosa said.

Following their conviction, they were transferred to Khami Maximum Prison, where they received an orientation on institutional rules and available rehabilitation programmes.

“At Khami Maximum Prison, I found a place where one could transform into a law-abiding citizen. The officer in charge outlined the programmes, and I decided to pursue English at Ordinary Level.”

Maphosa’s perception of prison life was transformed by his orientation.

“The stories I had heard were vastly different from reality. The officers were dedicated to helping us choose courses that would prevent re-offending. I decided to focus on my Ordinary Level examinations. With the help of inmate teachers, I achieved a B grade in English.”

Following his success, Maphosa joined the chaplaincy, aligning with his strong Christian upbringing.

“My family always encouraged church attendance, but I had drifted away. The chaplaincy helped me rebuild my life, and I understood the difference between right and wrong. The chaplain was impressed with my commitment and helped me enrol in a theology programme,” he said.

Maphosa discovered the power of music in spreading his faith, forming the gospel group Voice of Praise in 2018.

“Prison gave me time for introspection, and I created Voice of Praise to entertain, educate, and rehabilitate inmates,” he said.

The group gained popularity, performing at various church events. They recorded their debut album, “Ngithathenginje,” with the support of VG.

“I never imagined recording an album in prison. The ZPCS transformation made it possible,” Maphosa said.

The album launch at Anchor of Christ Church was well-supported. Shortly after, many group members benefited from the 2019 presidential amnesty.

Reunited in South Africa, Voice of Praise continued their musical journey.

“God has blessed us. Soon after our album, we were granted amnesty. After five years, I was released and moved to South Africa to establish a base for the band. My band members followed,” Maphosa said.

The group received a warm reception, and their album won an award at the Phakama FM music awards in December 2024.

“We won a Ford Focus vehicle. We are inspired to show that there is life after imprisonment. We have recorded our second album, ‘Jerusalem,’ with the help of fellow ex-convicts. I thank ZPCS for supporting our musical growth. The car is a direct result of their rehabilitation programmes,” he said.