Online Reporter
Sione Amidu, Gwanda Correspondent
THE Government has intensified efforts to empower prison inmates with practical life changing skills that will enable them to generate income after leaving the prison.
This emerged during the recent Matabeleland South Zimbabwe Prison and Correctional Services (ZPCS) 2025 Africa Prisons Day commemorations that were held at Phelandaba Stadium.
During the event, the inmates had the opportunity to interact with their families and community.
This year’s commemorations were held under the theme: “Evidence-based Rehabilitation for sustainable reintegration.”
In an interview, Nelson Ringirai, an inmate at Beitbridge Prison who is into embroidery and designing, said second chances are transforming the lives of inmates.
“I have learnt all these skills in prison, thanks to the rehabilitation programmes, which were introduced ZPCS,” he said.
Ringirai said had he been afforded an opportunity to attend school, he could not be serving a jail term.
“I use rags to make bags, hats and other products. When l leave this place l will be able to fend for my family using these skills I am being equipped with here. I also make sandals using old tyres and we sell them for $10,50 a pair,” he said.
Zombili Mdlongwa, an inmate at Plumtree Prison, who is into wood carving hailed the good work done by ZPCS saying prison was no longer a place to punish inmates.
“What l have learnt in prison is great. We grew up hearing a lot of myths about prison life. l’m here to testify that people spread lies,” he said.
“Who could have imagined that l will gain all these skills here. I have gained a lot of knowledge free of charge. After selling my items they give me five percent of the money. The knowledge that l have gained here in prison will help me in future.
“I am going to open a shop where l will be doing wood carving and also employ other people in the community. It is going to be a source of employment for others.”
In his remarks, Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Cde Albert Nguluvhe, commended ZPCS for playing a crucial role in preparing inmates for reintegration back into society.
“This year’s theme is timely and purposeful as it captures ZPCS shift from traditional rehabilitation methods to scientific, research-driven models with measurable outcomes,” he said.
Minister Nguluvhe said the focus aligns well with the Government’s philosophy of “leaving no one and no place behind” as championed by President Mnangagwa.
“We are determined to ensure that inmates, officers and correctional institutions are not only part of national development, but are also empowered to contribute meaningfully to it,” he said.
Cde Nguluvhe said the transformation of ZPCS from a punitive institution to a developmental, rights-based correctional model is a story of national progress.
He said the rebranding of ZPCS marked a fundamental shift in philosophy, one that places human dignity, rehabilitation, innovation and inclusivity at the heart of correctional work. The ZPCS Officer Commanding Matabeleland South Province Commissioner Cleopas Mzila Moyo said the prison day gives them an opportunity to appreciate the work of officers who serve with dedication often under challenging conditions.
“Prison day reminds us of our collective responsibility to support rehabilitation initiatives, promote human rights and build pathways that enable ex-offenders to successfully rejoin and contribute positively to our communities,” he said.
“Mat south has recorded successful stories in the rehabilitation of offenders. We have ex-inmate Norman Ngwenya who learnt welding skills at Gwanda prison, now running his own workshop at Ntepe Business Centre,” he said.
Londile Moyo
Bongani Ndlovu