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Ray Bande
Senior Reporter
A TOTAL of 14 prisoners from Mutare Farm Prison were conferred with diplomas in Theology at a colourful ceremony held last Friday at the correctional facility.
The inmates undertook the course with the financial and material assistance from Nehemiah Bible Institute (NBI).
Speaking during the graduation ceremony, Officer Commanding Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services (ZPCS) in Manicaland, Commissioner Spetosomusa Chinobva commended the inmates for choosing to change their lives for the better.
She also encouraged NBI to continue supporting such life changing initiatives within the country’s correctional services.
“Today is a day that marks a new beginning for most of you (graduates). You have chosen to give your life to Christ and that is an important decision which will go a long way in helping all those around you when your time to leave this place comes.
“I am particularly happy that your decision augers well with our vision and mandate as ZPCS. I have no doubt that you will be good ambassadors of the good work being carried out here by our dedicated officers.
“Turning to NBI, I really want to express my heartfelt appreciation of the great work that you have been carrying out. This is an initiative that will not only impact the individual, but the community and the nation at large,” she said.
NBI national coordinator, Pastor Webster Gwanzura outlined the history and mission of his organisation.
“As NBI, we mould a complete religious, God-fearing leader. We are not in the business of producing some of those funny pastors who we now see these days. Some of these pastors do not have a sense of occasion to the extent of being comical even while conducting funeral rites. We ensure we produce students who make a huge positive impact on our society.
“We are affiliated to the University of Pretoria. Any church can benefit from our initiatives,” he said.
Guest of honour at the event, Bishop Martin Chikuse acknowledged that some prisoners, like the biblical Joseph, did not commit any crime, but still found themselves behind bars.
“I urge you to be like Paul who moved from persecuting Christians and ended up being a religious leader. We are aware that some of you did not commit any crime. Just like the biblical Joseph, some of you were accused of crimes you did not commit and later found yourself in prison.
“It doesn’t matter at this stage, acceptance is key. Move on with the knowledge that Jesus Christ loves you and He knows what is in store for your future,” said Bishop Chikuse.
The 14 who completed their two-year studies include Brian Nyanga, John Ndanga, Joshua Mukunguma, Hardworking Mushati, Patrick Mushonga, Felician Khumbe, Richard Mutasa, Takawira Mutema, Brighton Chisiyiwa, Phineus Dhausi, Crispin Chiguma, Edison Nyagambo, Lancelot Kadungure and Tafadzwa Ruwodo.
ZAOGA also handed over an assortment of groceries to ZPCS during the same function.
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