Online Reporter
Arron Nyamayaro
HIP-HOP artist T-Gonzi returned to Harare Central Prison on Sunday, two days after his release.
He was back to thank prison officers and fellow inmates for supporting him during his incarceration.
TiGonzi was released on Friday after successfully appealing against his sentence.
He was released on bail.
He returned, not as an inmate, but as a visitor and even performed for the inmates.
Through his music, T-Gonzi encouraged inmates to stay hopeful and focused on rebuilding their lives.
“I am here today to give my special thanks to ZPCS staff and fellow inmates who walked with me through the journey when my life was down.
“So far, I am in a self-introspection mode.
“I do not want to engage the media much because I am now a new T-Gonzi. I want to follow a new path and focus more on my personal reform,” he said.
The visit was warmly received by Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS) officials. Officer Commanding Harare Metropolitan Province, Commissioner Charity Gezi, said T-Gonzi’s return, just days after release, reflects the institution’s commitment to rehabilitation that is grounded in humanity.
Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry Honourable Barbara Rwodzi, who organised the church service, reaffirmed her support for the ZPCS rehabilitation programmes.
She pledged to advance initiatives aimed at transforming correctional facilities into modern rehabilitation centres.
“Do not bully others inside prison, you are brothers.
“Take care of one another and spread love as we have been teaching you during the past five weeks. Government will continue supporting you but refrain from committing further crimes whilst you are in prison.
“Government is working tirelessly for your welfare and needs, so do good and become changed individuals,” she said.
The service was presided over by Father Onsimo Makava of the Roman Catholic Church, Chishawasha Parish.
derick.khumalo