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Precious Manomano, Herald Reporter
In a world grappling with food insecurity, solutions often come from unexpected sources, and the Ridigita Prison Farm in Mashonaland East stands as a powerful testament to the transformative potential of agriculture and rehabilitation.
Recently, the Government commended the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS) garnered for its substantial contributions to national food security through exemplary initiative such as the Ridigita Prison Farm.
Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi visited the 150-hectare maize field at Ridigita Prison Farm and expressed his admiration for the good work the ZPCS was doing at its farm.
“When I arrived here, I was profoundly impressed by what I saw,” he said. “The prisoners didn’t complain about lacking equipment or resources. Instead, they said, ‘we can’t waste this season; let’s plant.’ This positive attitude is truly inspiring,” said Minister Ziyambi.
The 150 hectare maize crop at Ridigita was planted manually showing a commitment to hard work and determination.
Despite the absence of modern machinery, the ZPCS hopes for good yields with 70 hectares of the crop already reaching the tasselling stage while 30 hectares are in the vegetative phase.
“From this crop, we are expecting at least five tonnes per hectare,” Minister Ziyambi noted, highlighting the potential impact of this initiative on national food supplies.
The significance of Ridigita Prison Farm extends beyond mere agricultural production.
It represents a holistic approach to rehabilitation, where inmates are engaged in meaningful work that equips them with essential skills for life after prison.
Minister Ziyambi emphasised this dual purpose.
“We are not only focusing on food security but also on empowering these inmates. The correctional officers are doing a commendable job in imparting skills to our inmates, ensuring they can contribute to our food security as productive farmers upon their release,” he said.
Minister Ziyambi told the gathering that the work being done at Ridigita had received the endorsement of the highest office in the land.
“His Excellency has commended the work you are doing here. We are advocating for more visits to showcase your accomplishments. You have made us proud,” he remarked, recognising the broader implications of the farm’s productivity.
Commissioner George Sibanda, the ZPCS Officer Commanding Mashonaland East, reiterated the organisation’s commitment to enhancing food security in Zimbabwe through initiatives like Ridigita Prison Farm.
“We are working diligently to improve the country’s food situation and teach life skills to our inmates. This approach is vital for their reintegration into society,” he stated.
The prison farm exemplifies the potential of utilising available resources and human capital to tackle pressing food security challenges.
By transforming inmates into skilled agricultural workers, Ridigita Prison Farm is not just cultivating crops but sowing seeds for a more self-sufficient future for Zimbabwe.
As the world continues to face food shortages and economic challenges, the story of Ridigita Prison Farm serves as a beacon of hope.
It underscores the importance of resilience, innovation and community support in the pursuit of food security.
With continued investment and commitment from the Government and stakeholders, initiatives like the Ridigita Prison Farm can pave the way for a more sustainable and food-secure Zimbabwe, turning challenges into opportunities for growth and rehabilitation of convicted offenders.
Online Reporter