Online Reporter
Mkhululi Ncube, [email protected]
LIFE imprisonment may have closed the door to freedom for Thinkwell Moyo, but it has not stopped him from learning new skills, rebuilding his life and finding purpose behind prison walls.
Moyo was initially sentenced to death for murder on 17 February 2019, but following the abolition of the death penalty in Zimbabwe, his sentence was commuted to life imprisonment.
He was among 20 inmates and five prison officers who graduated after undergoing detergent-making training conducted by the Virtuous Women’s Institute at Khami Remand Prison.
The training equipped inmates and prison officers with practical skills to produce detergents and other products, including dishwashing liquid, toilet cleaner, petroleum jelly and car-cleaning materials.
“We learnt skills in making various detergent used in households. I have learnt a lot while in jail. I am the most trusted tailor here at Khami after acquiring the skill,” Moyo said in an interview.
“Being in jail has lifted a veil because I had never imagined I could make use of such skills with my hands. I hope one day should I get out I will be able to use them.”
Another inmate on life sentence, Rodney Jindu, continues to acquire various skills as he was part of
the graduation ceremony.
Guest of honour during the ceremony Ms Busi Moyo said inmates can play a critical role in the development of the country`s economy by making use of the skills they acquire while in prison.
“Regardless of your current circumstances, you are valuable citizens capable of driving real economic growth. Take these skills, teach others, and build thriving enterprises. “Together, we will build our Zimbabwe, living out the vision of His Excellency, the President: ‘Nyika inovakwa nevene vayo/ Ilizwe lakhiwa ngabanikazi balo’,” she said.
Ms Moyo said inmates need to be virtuous in their conduct all the time.
“The Virtuous Women Institute has carried this mission for years. Today, here at Khami Prison, I am deeply honoured to confer upon all of you graduates, inmates, and officers alike the title of virtuous women and men. What does it mean to be virtuous?” she said.
“A virtuous person is someone who chooses what is right, even when it is difficult. Makes integrity a daily habit, rather than a one-time choice. Embodies honesty, courage, kindness, fairness, and self-control. Cares genuinely for the well-being of others and the broader community.”
Miss Moyo said the organisation is motivated by the works of the First Lady Dr Auxillia
Mnangagwa, who is effortlessly imparting vital skills to women and men across the country, ensuring ‘no one and no place is left behind’.
Ms Moyo urged ZPCS to help the inmates and officers register a company that will produce detergents at large scale and sell to the ready market to earn money to support themselves.
“These skills will keep you busy and supplement your income for your needs. It will make you self-reliant even whilst still in prison. Acquiring hands-on skills is crucial for everyone, even those who are employed, because you can supplement your salary,” she said.
Ms Moyo promised to support inmates so that they use the skills they have acquired.
Officer-in-charge of Khami Remand Prison, Chief Superintendent Thulani Moyo, said providing skills to inmates was part of their mandate to rehabilitate inmates.
“This course will go a long way in assisting us in rehabilitating inmates. The skills they have attained will help them when they are released.
“Rehabilitation acts as a long way to protect society because when inmates gain some skills they will use them and do always with the life of crime,” he said.
