Online Reporter
Arron Nyamayaro
IN a significant move towards rehabilitation, the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS) has announced that select inmates will soon have access to conjugal rights while serving their sentences.
The initiative marks a noteworthy shift from punitive measures to a focus on correctional practices.
The first inmates to enjoy these rights will be those who have demonstrated exemplary behaviour and adaptability to correctional measures.
At Marondera Female Open Prison and Connemara Prison, selected inmates have already begun enjoying conjugal visits during the holiday season.
With Unity Day approaching, several inmates will be temporarily released to celebrate the festivities, with plans to return to their facilities after New Year.
Addressing female inmates recently, ZPCS Commissioner-General Moses Chihobvu unveiled plans for a parole system that promises to benefit all female inmates at the open prison.
“We are in the process of implementing the parole system,” said Comm-Gen Chihobvu, to an eager audience.
“Once operational, this system will allow some inmates to complete their sentences in the comfort of their homes.”
The announcement was met with applause, as inmates expressed their gratitude by singing and kneeling in appreciation, exclaiming, “Tinotenda nerudo rwakadai!” (We thank you for this love!).
Comm-Gen Chihobvu reiterated that professionals from the Parole Board will carefully select inmates eligible for the programme, prioritising those who have shown success in rehabilitation initiatives.
On Monday, ZPCS opened prison gates, allowing inmates to reconnect with their loved ones until Sunday, as part of their rehabilitation and reintegration process.
ZPCS spokesperson, Assistant Commissioner Meya Khanyezi, encouraged families to take advantage of this opportunity, highlighting its importance in helping inmates develop a sense of belonging.
“As ZPCS, we cannot solely rehabilitate inmates,” said Asst Comm Khanyezi.
“Their families and communities must also play a vital role. Prisoners come from the community and will eventually return there.”
She urged the public to visit prisons nationwide, bringing gifts to express love and support, which aids in the reform process and ensures that inmates do not perceive prison as their permanent home.
“The upcoming parole system will also address conjugal rights for inmates,” Asst Comm Khanyezi added.
“Many in Marondera Female and Connemara Prisons have already begun to enjoy these rights while serving their sentences.
“Conjugal rights will be enjoyed in the comfort of their homes, not in prison.”
During a visit to five prisons in Harare, Zimpapers observed numerous inmates joyfully reuniting with their loved ones, sharing meals, and embracing each other in a heart-warming display of affection.
