Online Reporter
Victor Maphosa
Mashonaland East Bureau
MEMBERS of the public from Marondera, as well as inmates at Marondera Prison, have commended the Government, through the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service, for the Family Week, which allowed inmates to interact with their relatives.
This year, ZPCS held two Family Weeks, during which inmates are given opportunities to meet their children, spouses, relatives and friends.
At Marondera Prison in Mashonaland East province, it was all joy as inmates had the chance to meet, talk, share food, and discuss issues with their loved ones.
In an interview at the prison, visitors thanked ZPCS for the programme, which they said is key in keeping family bonds intact, among other benefits.
“I am so happy to be here visiting my husband. I saw him, and we have been talking since I arrived. What excites me is that he is fine. Actually, he is stress-free, which has brought me some relief,” said Rachel Murisi from Murehwa.
“He was also happy to see me. I have missed him, and he has missed me. Having an opportunity to meet, talk, and hug him feels good. I want to thank ZPCS for this gesture. At least when I go back home, I will be happy that I saw him and that he is doing fine.”
Tendai Nyamupingidza, who had visited her husband, said they had a nice time talking and seeing each other.
“I asked him several times if he was fine, and he confirmed that everything is fine with him. From the way he looks, he is surely fine, and that alone shows that ZPCS is strictly adhering to correctional services, which should be commended,” she said.
“We hear a lot of negative stories about prison life, but once one hears from an inmate, you become well informed, and what my husband told me has changed my perception. They are treated in a good manner, and I want to thank the institution for that.
“I know my husband will come out one day, so I will faithfully wait for him. We will continue with life together. I again want to thank ZPCS for this week. On Sunday, I will definitely bring the children to see their father, and for him to see them. I am definite that we will enjoy the moment.”
An inmate, Munyaradzi Mapiye, said he spent the day with his parents, who came from Mhondoro, and that brought joy to him as well as to them.
“My parents travelled all the way from Mhondoro just to see me. This means a lot to me. It shows that they love me, and that gesture keeps me strong. So I want to thank them,” he said.
“Also, being in prison has taught me a lot of things as a man. We are trained in various skills that will enable us to earn a living once we are done serving our jail term. As for me, I learned to make baskets from plastic waste. I am now good at that. I make small to large baskets and sell some of them to the people.
“We are also taught to live in harmony with others. Once I go out, it will be easy for me to mingle with others in the community. I learned that forgiving others is the right thing to do. Above all, I learned that crime does not pay.”
