Arron Nyamayaro

EVEN inmates celebrate Valentine’s Day.

At Harare Central Prison, Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services Deputy Commissioner General Christine Manhivi emphasised the importance of love and support for inmates. 

She urged the public to pay regular visits to their loved ones who are in prison.

“Valentine’s Day is often perceived as a celebration solely for lovers but it embodies much more than that,” said DCG Manhivi. 

“It represents the essence of human connection and the importance of expressing love for one another in our daily lives. 

“This perspective invites us to broaden our understanding of love, recognising it as a vital force that unites us all, regardless of our circumstances.

“Prison cannot change people’s bad behaviour alone. Everyone needs love,not a conditional love or a one day love.

“Today, we joined other nations in celebrating Valentine’s Day but let it not be for a day only but unconditional and forever.”

She added:

“We are taking this opportunity to encourage spouses and relatives of those in prison to come to visit them.

“We are all potential prisoners, hence let us show love to those in prison since we will expect the same when jailed.

“Ukasapara mhosva unopomerwa mhosva watoiswa kuRemand Prison, wotarisirawo kuuya kuzowonekwa. ZPCS cannot rehabilitate and reintergrate inmates alone but it is a collective responsibility.

“Inmates come from the society and return to the society upon completing their sentences hence the need to show them love.

“We are disturbed to see released inmates committing other crimes in order to return to prison due to lack of love from societies.”

DCG Manhivi hugged a number of the inmates and took part in the celebrations.

Kenny Wamambo, the Prison Band and some artists, among the inmates who included Sekuru Gudo, provided entertainment.(@Hmetro)