Online Reporter
Arron Nyamayaro
A VISITING United Nations Prison Advisor has praised the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS) for their commitment to upholding the dignity of inmates.
Mr Meissner Phillip, the Inter-Regional Advisor on Prison and Penal Reform in Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice, expressed admiration for the ‘Ubuntu’ philosophy embedded in the initiatives of the Pathways to Reintegration Foundation (PAREF).
He highlighted the strong emphasis on rehabilitation and reintegration of offenders during his visit.
“I was particularly impressed when Commissioner General Moses Chihobvu spoke about the philosophy of Zimbabwe’s Ubuntu: ‘I Am Because We Are.’
“This embodies the collective effort necessary for effective rehabilitation.
“As he mentioned, the Pathways to Reintegration Foundation plays a crucial role, demonstrating that the prison system cannot undertake this process alone.”
Mr Phillip commended both Zimbabwe and ZPCS for their collective efforts, highlighting the importance of collaboration among all stakeholders in the rehabilitation process.
“Thank you, Zimbabwe and ZPCS, for your significant contributions.”
The ZPCS, in collaboration with organisations such as the Pathways to Reintegration Foundation and the Ministry of Youth, is dedicated to transforming inmates into productive citizens.
Their focus includes skills training—spanning vocational, agricultural, and digital courses—mentorship programmes, and partnerships that promote a shift from punitive measures to restorative justice. Initiatives such as the revitalised parole system and community engagement programmes exemplify this commitment.
“I am in Zimbabwe to support ongoing reform efforts in alignment with the Nelson Mandela Rules, focusing on the rehabilitation and reintegration of offenders,” Phillip said during his visit to Mazowe Farm Prison.
“My purpose here is to exchange ideas with ZPCS on how to sustain and enhance these rehabilitation efforts.
“The responsibility of social engagement and providing second chances for offenders lies not only with the prison system but with all stakeholders.”
During a briefing, Tafirenyika Chikazinga, the officer in charge of Mazowe Farm Prison, said the facility, which was established in 1987, wants to generate income and change the mindset of inmates.
“Our goal is to promote self-employment and reduce re-offending,” he said.
“The activities you witnessed today aim to refine corrections and promote peace in our country through the rehabilitation of inmates and their successful reintegration into society.”
Under public-private partnerships, Mazowe Strategic Business Unit manages several ventures, including a mining operation and a brick-moulding factory. “These initiatives provide income-generating opportunities and allow inmates to participate in meaningful rehabilitation programmes,” he said.
Currently, joint venture institutions within the Mazowe Strategic Business Unit employ around 150 workers, benefiting both current and former inmates, along with community members.
