Online Reporter
Arron Nyamayaro
THE execution chambers at Chikurubi Maximum Prison, where death row prisoners used to be executed, have been converted into a broadcasting studio.
This follows the abolition of the death penalty in this country.
Inmates and prison officers will take turns to present programmes on Prison Radio, which is expected to be launched in three weeks’ time.
They will be broadcasting from what used to be the execution chambers.
Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS) Commissioner General, Moses Chihobvu, revealed this yesterday at the Training Workshop of ‘The Bridge FM Radio’ presenters in Harare.
Among the 35 participants, three are inmates.
“I am, therefore, elated to be with you today as we officially open this training workshop for ‘Bridge FM’ radio presenters, held under the theme, ‘From a Place of Death to a Platform of Transformation,’” said Comm-Gen Chihobvu.
“For the benefit of some who may not be aware, the story of ‘Bridge FM’ is unlike any other in Zimbabwe.
“Situated within Chikurubi Maximum Prison, the station stands as one of the most remarkable symbols of institutional transformation.
“Following the abolition of the death penalty in Zimbabwe, a place once associated with the finality of life, the former gallows were imaginatively and purposefully converted into a broadcasting studio.
“This extraordinary transformation demonstrates that institutions can reinvent themselves by creatively utilising available resources in pursuit of a higher purpose.
“What once symbolised punishment has become a platform that communicates hope. What once represented despair now broadcasts messages of rehabilitation, restoration and opportunity.”
He added:“Indeed, ‘Bridge FM’ is more than a community radio station; it is a living expression of the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS)’s transformation agenda.
“As we continue to embrace modern correctional philosophies, our focus has shifted beyond safe custody to emphasise more on offender rehabilitation, successful reintegration and meaningful community engagement.
“Communication is, therefore, central to this transformation.”
He said ‘Bridge FM’ was established to become a strategic communication platform that educates the public, showcases rehabilitation programmes, promotes positive behavioural change and strengthens community confidence in correctional services.
“A broadcasting platform is only as credible as the people behind the microphone.As presenters, you are not merely reading scripts or introducing programmes. You are ambassadors of ZPCS.
“Every word you speak has the potential to educate, inspire, influence public opinion and shape perceptions about our institution.
“This is why today’s training workshop is both timely and necessary.
“The Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe rightly expects every licensed broadcaster to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, ethical conduct, accuracy, fairness, impartiality and responsible broadcasting.
“These standards are not optional, they are fundamental requirements for maintaining public confidence and preserving the integrity of Zimbabwe’s broadcasting sector.”
Comm-Gen Chihobvu said the future of correctional communication demands presenters who are professional, ethical, innovative and responsive to contemporary global trends and international best practices in correctional management.
“Use your platform to educate, to inspire hope, to encourage rehabilitation and to support successful reintegration.
“Let ‘Bridge FM’ continue to demonstrate that even a place once defined by punishment can become a beacon of transformation.”
Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe CEO, Engineer Matthias Chakanyuka, urged ‘Bridge FM’ to be responsible and protect children from harmful content.
“As BAZ, we are happy to have a new kid to join other radios around the nation.
“We urge you to be responsible and be guided by Broadcasting Act, grow bigger and learn from BAZ’s first born, ZBC,” he said.
