First Lady commissions state-of-the-art computer lab at Marondera Female Open Prison

Blessings Chidakwa

Sunday Mail Reporter

FIRST LADY Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa on Friday officially commissioned a state-of-the-art digital and vocational training centre at the Marondera Female Open Correctional Institution.

The donation, accompanied by blankets, sewing machines, sanitary supplies and food hampers, marked another chapter in her mission to ensure no Zimbabwean, regardless of their circumstances, is left behind.

As the patron of the facility, Dr Mnangagwa’s visit was not simply ceremonial, as she engaged personally with inmates, offering heartfelt encouragement and calling on them to embrace transformation, abandon harmful behaviours and look to a brighter future.

“I have come to strengthen you. This is only a phase, and it shall pass. Some of you are deeply stressed, but I am here to give you hope,” she said.

The First Lady said the idea to construct this centre was born out of a desire to restore dignity, purpose and opportunity to women in correctional institutions.

Amai Mnangagwa said she approached the prisons with a vision to transform the lives of female inmates, commending the authority for taking this vision to heart.

“Today, the result stands before us, an institution equipped not only with computers, digital tools and training facilities, but also with a fully operational postal outlet to facilitate access to communication and Government services.

“The centre is more than just bricks and mortar; it is a gateway to empowerment. It will offer inmates digital literacy skills and e-learning opportunities that will help them reintegrate into society as productive, self-reliant citizens,” she said.

Dr Mnangagwa said the vocational training centre will offer specialised courses for women in baking, dressmaking and hairdressing.

“These programmes will not only equip women with valuable skills, but also pave the way for economic independence and self-sufficiency.

“The centre, therefore, provides tools not only to survive but to thrive.

“As patron of the SheTech initiative, I am proud of this digital and vocational training centre, as it promotes and upholds gender equality in digitalisation, even in places such as prisons where one would ordinarily not expect to see such a development,” she said.

The First Lady said while the SheTech initiative is an important thrust that requires more support, all hands should be on deck to ensure that efforts lead to equality in digitalisation, as opposed to creating a new gender imbalance in the information and communication technology (ICT) space.

“Let us, therefore, continue in our efforts to promote the inclusion of more women and girls in ICT and technology until we achieve equality in digitalisation.

“When we speak of gender equality in digital transformation, we are speaking of opening doors for women, particularly those who have been marginalised, misunderstood or forgotten. Women in correctional facilities are often among the most vulnerable, but they are also among the most resilient and determined to rebuild their lives.”

Amai Mnangagwa said the establishment of the centre sends a clear message: no Zimbabwean must be left behind.

“To the women of the Marondera Female Open Correctional Institution, the centre is for you. May it ignite your dreams, restore your confidence and equip you with the knowledge and skills to write a new chapter in your lives,” she said.

“Never underestimate your worth. You have the power to change your story, and today we offer you the tools to do just that. I urge all stakeholders in both the public and private sectors to emulate this model and extend similar opportunities across the country.”

Amai Mnangagwa also urged the women to use the sewing machines to produce sanitary wear for schoolgirls, transforming charity into empowerment.

The facility, now equipped with modern computer workstations, will train inmates in digital literacy, preparing them for life beyond the prison walls.

For many of the women, it is a life-changing opportunity. Inmate Neria Marufu, visibly moved, expressed her gratitude.

“We thank you deeply, Amai. We are now studying computers and have become globally connected.

Before this, some of us didn’t even know how to switch one on,” she said.

“Now, we’ll leave here able to help our children with their homework and explore the internet for knowledge. I’m determined to leave this place more informed than I’ve ever been.”

Another inmate, Mildred Goba, echoed the same sentiments.

“Thank you, Amai, for thinking of us and living the President’s mantra of leaving no one and no place behind. You have truly empowered us,” she said.

Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS) Commissioner-General Moses Chihobvu hailed Dr Mnangagwa’s continued support, crediting her for many transformative initiatives across the country’s correctional system.

“Your consistent presence and leadership have turned this facility into a model of excellence not just in Zimbabwe, but throughout the SADC (Southern African Development Community) region,” he said. “Your focus on the social, emotional and practical needs of inmates is a source of hope and inspiration.”

Comm-Gen Chihobvu said the First Lady’s efforts have helped the ZPCS envision a globally respected model for correctional rehabilitation.

“This institution is no longer just a place of incarceration; it is now a place of dignity, growth and opportunity,” he noted.

Receiving the donation on behalf of the Ministry of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs, Deputy Minister Nobert Mazungunye conveyed appreciation for the First Lady’s inclusive and reformative vision.

“Your Excellency, your exemplary leadership and humanitarian commitment continue to shape a more compassionate justice system,” he said.

“Through the Angel of Hope Foundation, your work has restored dignity and brought hope to those who need it most.”

The digital lab and new clinic, built through partnerships under the Angel of Hope Foundation, represent more than new infrastructure; they are a declaration that rehabilitation is real and that every Zimbabwean deserves the tools to rebuild their lives.