Chronicle Editor
Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu , [email protected]
THE just ended Matabeleland South Agricultural Show in Gwanda provided a platform for prison inmates to showcase various skills they acquired while serving.
Razik Ncube (19) said his stay in prison has helped him to identify new talents.
“I was convicted in July for robbery and I saw some of my fellow inmate being taught how to weave a mat. I watched as he was being taught and I developed an interest,” he said.
“I was able to learn how to weave and in no time and I realised that it was actually a talent that I was not aware of.’
Today, Ncube is one of the best weavers at Gwanda Prison.
“I’m sure that I can make any product that requires weaving. I am also able to make fences and had I known that I had such talents, I could have explored them a long time ago to earn a living,” he said.
Ncube said he had learnt from his mistakes and upon release he will use his newly acquired skills.
He said he hopes to impart his knowledge and skills to other youngsters upon his release.
Ncube, who is set to be released next August, said sometimes youngsters resort to crime out of desperation.
Last Ruvingo (28) who is serving at Filabusi Prison acquired sewing skills. He said he has identified a special skill in sewing hats.
He started the training with several other inmates who, however, lost interest along the way. Ruvingo didn’t give up until he perfected his skills and he has also started learning carpentry.
“I was convicted in June for theft and after a few weeks in prison I then developed an interest in sewing. Within a short time, I grasped the concept of designing and sewing hats,” he said.
Ruvingo said when he is released in May next year he will also use his skills to fend for his family.
The 65th edition of the Matabeleland South Agricultural Show, which ran from 21 to 23 September, was held under the theme “Sound Value Chains for Transformation and Economic Productivity.”
The theme resonates with Vision 2030. About 80 exhibitors participated at this year’s event compared to 45 last year.
Zimbabwe Prison and Correctional Services (ZPCS) Matabeleland South provincial rehabilitation coordinator, Chief Correctional Officer Mthokozisi Chimbezi said in line with this year’s agricultural show society theme, they showcased how the prison is contributing towards economic empowerment of inmates.
She said upon their release, prisoners have to be reintegrated into society and contribute towards attainment of Vision 2030.
“We usually exhibit at the Matabeleland South Agricultural Show but this time around we came with prisoners who are showcasing skills acquired during their stay in prison.
“We teach them mat making, welding, carpentry, gardening, poultry, cattle ranching, goat rearing and making furniture among others,” said CCO Chimbezi.
She said the prison is working with other stakeholders in its programme to empower inmates with skills.
“The objective of our rehabilitation programme is to empower inmates with skills so that on release they become productive citizens, said CCO Chimbezi. —@DubeMatutu
Online Reporter