Online Reporter
Sikhumbuzo Moyo [email protected]
GOVERNMENT has commended the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS) for its efforts in equipping inmates with vocational and agricultural skills aimed at enhancing their successful reintegration into society upon release.
The commendation was made during the Manicaland Business Expo held in Mutare last week where ZPCS showcased a range of arts and crafts as well as agricultural products produced by inmates from Mutare Remand Prison and Mutare Prison Farm.
Speaking during the Catalysing Economic Development through Informal Sector (CEDIS) programme ceremony held alongside the expo, Minister of Women’s Affairs, Small and Medium Enterprises Development, Monica Mutsvangwa hailed the initiative for advancing inclusive economic empowerment across various institutions.
She said the CEDIS programme was creating opportunities for institutions such as ZPCS to access new markets, financing, business assets and business development services, thereby strengthening their contribution to economic growth.
Minister Mutsvangwa also applauded ZPCS for incorporating agricultural skills training into its offender rehabilitation programmes, saying such initiatives empower inmates with practical skills that can help them become productive members of society after serving their sentences.
The exhibition highlighted the impact of rehabilitation programmes being implemented by ZPCS, with inmates producing marketable goods and agricultural products that contribute to self-sufficiency and skills development.
Also attending the event was Swedish Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Per Lindgärde, who underscored the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors in driving sustainable development.
Ambassador Lindgärde said successful public-private partnerships require strong government leadership, shared responsibility and collective commitment from all stakeholders.
He noted that sustainable economic development is achieved through innovation and locally driven solutions, adding that the Swedish Government remains committed to strengthening cooperation with Zimbabwe in support of inclusive economic growth.
The expo provided a platform for businesses, development partners and Government institutions to showcase products and services while exploring opportunities for collaboration and economic empowerment.
