Online Reporter
Ivan Zhakata
Herald Correspondent
A new programme aimed at supporting vulnerable inmates upon release from prison has been launched through a partnership between the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS) and The51, the philanthropic arm of outsourcing company ZimWorX.
The initiative dubbed ‘Fresh Start’ is funded by ZimWorX co-founder and managing partner Mr James Wade Oliver Jr and seeks to assist former inmates with transport money and necessities as they begin life outside prison.
Under the programme, 60 inmates preparing for release each month receive US$10 for transport and a starter kit containing toiletries and an inspirational booklet.
The programme was launched last week at Harare Central Prison and the Chikurubi Maximum Security Prison Complex, where a ZimWorX delegation led by The51 head of philanthropy Pastor Blessing Makwara handed over support packages to inmates due for release.
Additional starter kits and transport funds were also left with prison authorities for inmates scheduled for release in the coming days.
Speaking shortly after his release from Harare Central Prison, beneficiary Mr Honest Nyauta said the assistance had come at a crucial time.
“To be honest, I had no idea how I was going to get home. Without this intervention, I was going to go around begging people for money, I guess,” he said.
Mr Nyauta, who lives in Beatrice, said the initiative would help ease the challenges faced by many former inmates immediately after their release.
“This is a great initiative that should support as many people as possible,” he said.
Another beneficiary, Mr Tatenda Ndondo, said the lack of transport money was one of the challenges that often pushed some former inmates back into crime.
“Actually, a few inmates that were released three days ago are back inside,” he said.
“What happens is that someone is released, but they have no money to go home. They easily slip back into a life of crime by stealing to get bus fare. Some get caught and they are brought back to prison.”
The Fresh Start programme targets inmates identified as lacking transport money and family support upon release.
According to organisers, beneficiaries receive a dignity pack, transport assistance and inspirational reading material aimed at supporting their reintegration into society.
The initiative is part of a wider portfolio of philanthropic projects supported by Mr Oliver through ZimWorX and The51.
Last year, he donated US$25 000 to KidsCan, an organisation that provides support to children living with cancer and their families.
More recently, The51 installed a solar power system at Emerald Hill School for the Deaf and has continued supporting several community development projects, including Bunny Estates, which focuses on improving livelihoods in communities around Gwebi.
The Fresh Start initiative complements ongoing rehabilitation efforts by providing practical support to discharged inmates and helping reduce the risk of reoffending.
