Online Reporter
Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu, [email protected]
HUSBANDS of women incarcerated at Gwanda Prison in Matabeleland South have opened up about their emotions and frustrations, as they shoulder the burden of raising children alone in the absence of their partners.
While society often perceives men as more likely to engage in criminal behaviour and receive longer sentences for various offences, statistics reveal a growing number of women being convicted, including for serious crimes such as murder and drug trafficking.
During the recent Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services (ZPCS) Family Week, it was revealed that nine female inmates are housed at Gwanda Prison — a significant increase from just two at the same time last year. Most of the women have been convicted of drug peddling, while some are on remand for murder.
The ZPCS held its Family Week from Sunday, April 28 to Sunday, May 4, during which families were allowed to visit their incarcerated relatives daily from 9am to 3:30pm. Children were also permitted to attend.
The initiative aims to foster interaction and rebuild relationships between inmates and their families. It offers an opportunity for families to spend time with mothers, often regarded as the backbone of the household.
Mr Godknows Nkomo, from Gwanda District, visited his wife Thembelihle Mpofu during Family Week. Mpofu (31) was convicted after being found in possession of dangerous drugs.
Mr Nkomo said he has been left to care for their two children, aged one year and nine months, and four years.
“Family Week gave me a chance to spend time with my wife, but it also reminded me how much we miss her and how much we need her in our lives. We have two young children — the youngest is not even two. It’s challenging to take care of them while also trying to work.
“As a man, looking after very young children on my own is particularly difficult. When the mother of the house is gone, it creates a gap that’s hard to fill. I’ve discussed this with my wife to try to find a way forward. I hope she can be released soon,” he said.
Mr Nkomo expressed his unwavering support for his wife, saying he would stand by her throughout her sentence and ensure their children are well cared for during her absence.
Mr Fredrick Dube, who also visited his wife along with their children, said it was a meaningful opportunity to reunite as a family. While acknowledging that some men may abandon their incarcerated partners, he vowed to support his wife until her release.
“During times like these, inmates need love and support from their families, not judgement,” he said.
In an interview, the Officer in Charge of Gwanda Prison, Superintendent Ishmael Madzimbamuto, confirmed that of the nine female inmates, six have been convicted, while three are on remand for murder. He noted that most female inmates were involved in drug-related offences.
“This time around, we’ve seen an increase in the number of women being housed at Gwanda Prison. The majority have been convicted for drug offences. In the past, it was mostly men being arrested for murder, but we are now seeing more women facing such serious charges,” he said.
Supt Madzimbamuto said Family Week plays a vital role in the rehabilitation process and helps maintain ties between inmates and their families. He stressed the importance of continued family involvement for successful reintegration upon release.
“Being incarcerated does not mean one’s life is over or that they should be disconnected from society and family matters. We commend families who have responded to the call to visit their loved ones in prison. This exercise gives inmates the chance to talk to their relatives, seek closure and ask for forgiveness.
“Having their families visit them also supports the prisoners’ mental well-being. They are able to spend quality time together, discuss critical issues and participate in decision-making.
“This gives them a sense of belonging and something to look forward to when they are eventually released, knowing they are still needed and valued at home,” he said. — @DubeMatutu
