Online Reporter
Patrick Chitumba, [email protected]
FOR a few precious hours last Friday, the clang of prison gates gave way to the rhythm of traditional drums, ululations and laughter.
Dressed in colourful traditional attire, 56 female inmates at Shurugwi Female Prison sang, danced and recited poetry as they celebrated Culture Month in an event that brought joy, dignity and a renewed sense of identity behind prison walls.
For many of the women, it was more than a cultural celebration. It was a rare opportunity to reconnect with their roots and momentarily look beyond the mistakes and circumstances that brought them to prison.
“It was a day well spent and for a few hours we forgot our circumstances. We laughed, we danced and we remembered who we are. Culture gives us strength,” said one inmate who participated in a traditional dance group.
The prison yard, usually associated with routine and discipline, was transformed into a vibrant cultural arena. Colourful beadwork, handwoven baskets and traditional decorations adorned the venue as inmates showcased
Zimbabwe’s rich cultural heritage through music, dance, poetry, indigenous games and traditional cuisine.
The celebrations came a week after the National Culture Month commemorations held at Barbourfields Stadium, where President Mnangagwa urged Zimbabweans to embrace, preserve and harness the country’s cultural heritage as a pillar of national identity and development.
At Shurugwi Female Prison, that message found expression among women seeking a second chance in life.
Groups representing different cultural backgrounds took turns performing on a makeshift stage, drawing applause from fellow inmates, prison officers and invited guests.
Some sang traditional songs they had learned as children, while others performed dances that reminded them of family gatherings, weddings and community celebrations back home.
For many inmates, the performances evoked memories of loved ones and communities they hope to rejoin upon release.
Officer in Charge of Shurugwi Female Prison, Superintendent Wadzanayi Zimunya, said cultural activities play an important role in the rehabilitation process.
“These programmes help inmates rebuild self-esteem and develop skills that will assist them when they return to society. Through art, music and cultural activities, they learn discipline, teamwork and respect for others,” she said.
Supt Zimunya said cultural diversity within correctional facilities also helps foster understanding and unity among inmates from different backgrounds.
“Cultural diversity aids the reformation of inmates and promotes unity and cohesion among those in our care. When inmates celebrate and understand each other’s cultures, barriers fall away and genuine rehabilitation can take root,” she said.
The event was organised by the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services (ZPCS) in partnership with River Valley Group, a company that has built a long-standing relationship with the correctional facility.
Over the years, the company has supported various projects at the prison, including the construction of a staff hostel, purchasing poultry produced by inmates and engaging the prison’s catering team for corporate events.
River Valley Group chief executive officer Dr Smelly Dube said culture remains a powerful tool for personal transformation.
“When you embrace your culture, you embrace values that teach respect, unity and responsibility. These are values that will help inmates when they return to their communities,” she said.
In a gesture that was warmly received, Dr Dube announced that River Valley Group would construct and furnish an
Early Childhood Development (ECD) block at the prison and undertake renovations to gardens and other facilities.
She also donated US$1 000 towards prison welfare programmes.
“Culture promotes peaceful co-existence, restores dignity and encourages discipline. When we nurture cultural expression behind these walls, we are building foundations for successful reintegration into society,” said Dr Dube.
The ECD facility will particularly benefit incarcerated mothers who are raising young children within the correctional environment.
