Chronicle Editor
Whinsley Masara, Chronicle Reporter
PRESIDENT Emmerson Mnangagwa has promoted 259 senior officers from the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services (ZPCS).
Conferment of badges of ranks of Principal Correctional Officer (CPO) up to the rank of Commissioner, was done on Wednesday across the country.
A total of 31 officers were promoted in Bulawayo Metropolitan, Matabeleland North and Matabeleland South provinces. In a speech read on his behalf by Senior Assistant Commissioner Lambart Janah, ZPCS Commissioner General, Retired Major General Paradzai Zimondi said the promotions were a clear indication that the Government appreciated the officers’ hard work and was motivating them to continue serving the organisation and nation at large.
He urged prisons to utilise the farms at their disposal for self-sustenance and food security.
“It is our duty to continue supporting the implementation of all Government policies which are designed to accelerate economic growth. One of our most urgent priorities is to provide sufficient and nutritious food for our inmates.
“Command Agriculture could not have come at a better time than now when we are constrained in terms of resources. Let us therefore take advantage of the programme and fully utilise the farms at our disposal,” he said.
Officers were reminded that law and order in society, reliable protection of citizen’s and security were essential conditions for the country’s development.
“ZPCS plays a key part in ensuring these conditions. Let us properly play our part so that we achieve the desired goals paying particular attention to the need to combat all acts of misbehaviour.
“Let us all work actively to combat corruption in all its forms , which include bribery, unfair competition, conflict of interests, fraud, embezzlement, unlawful kickbacks, nepotism and cronyism, among other forms,” said Rtd Major Gen Zimondi.
He urged officers to continue being vigilant, well-focused and resolute, given that the tasks ahead following their promotion. “Our effectiveness depends on the competence and commitment of our officers and how we motivate them to perform their roles.
“It is imperative to adopt an open door policy whereby new ideas from everyone including those you command should be taken on board,” said Rtd Major Gen Zimondi.
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