US$47 000 to fix damaged Khami Prison Complex

ABOUT US$50,000 is required to repair three blocks of cells for inmates at the Medium Prison in the Khami Prison Complex after heavy rains damaged buildings, ablution facilities and houses for Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services officers last week.

The storm that was accompanied by strong winds also flattened sections of the perimeter fence at the Medium Prison.

Several houses that are home to ZPCS officers had roofs blown away and damaged by decades-old trees that fell after heavy rains hit the area.

No one was injured and all the inmates are safe and accounted for.

Matabeleland North Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Richard Moyo visited the Khami Prison Complex on Tuesday to assess the damage and pledged prompt Government support to repair the damage and bring back normalcy at the country’s second largest prison.

Minister Moyo was accompanied by ZPCS Bulawayo Metropolitan Province Officer Commanding Commissioner Mkhulunyelwa Ngwenya and senior ZPCS officers.

“A total of US$47,000 is required for the damages that were caused by the heavy rains. On 1 December 2025, a hailstorm destroyed three blocks of cells, toilets and a section of the perimeter fence at Khami’s Medium Prison,” said Comm Ngwenya.

“At the prison camp staff quarters, roofs were blown away and despite the extensive damage, we are grateful that no lives were lost and we did not record any injuries.

“All inmates, officers and their dependants remained safe and I would like to thank all those who provided material support, as well as spiritual support to all those who were affected by the heavy rains,” he added.

“The presence of Minister Moyo is a significant demonstration of the Government’s unwavering commitment to the safety, welfare and well-being of all its citizens, inmates and officers of the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services.”

Comm Ngwenya commended officers for braving harsh weather elements to bring the situation under control.

“I would like to commend officers who reacted with speed and courage to make sure that all the inmates remained secure during and after the calamity,” he said.

“We also appreciate the prompt reaction of the Bulawayo Fire Brigade after our distress call.

“We were visited by officials from the minister’s office as well as stakeholders who constitute the Civil Protection Unit.

“It’s important to note that we have taken measures to mitigate future damages by inspecting and attending to all buildings at the Khami Prison Complex with a focus on the roofs and trees that cause damage when rain hits the area.

“It is our hope that we will get all the assistance to repair and restore the buildings after a visit from officers from our head office who came up with a bill of quantities that will be shared with all relevant stakeholders,” he said.

Minister Moyo hailed CPU stakeholders and external partners such as the Bulawayo Fire Brigade for extending their hand at a time prison authorities wanted assistance from various players in the emergency sector.

“Although we stand before considerable damage, we also stand united in gratitude as no lives were lost and for that we give sincere thanks to the Almighty,” he said.

“The severe weather conditions compromised the structural integrity and damaged some buildings as well as the perimeter fence.

“About 18 houses were affected and the storm also weakened some of the infrastructure, while daily operations were disrupted. We have been informed of roofs that were blown away, windows shattered and essential facilities exposed to the harsh weather elements,” said Minister Moyo.

He led delegates through a tree planting session spearheaded by the Forestry Commission at the Khami Prison Complex.

“This incident has tested both our resilience and our level of preparedness. It has also reminded us of the critical importance of tree planting within and around the Khami Prison Complex.

“Trees serve as natural buffers that reduce the impact of strong winds and hailstorms while also enhancing environmental protection,” Moyo said.

“As we rebuild, it is vital that we intensify reforestation efforts to strengthen our resilience against future extreme weather-induced emergencies.”

The CPU stands ready to act in times of emergencies, said Minister Moyo.

“Our response after the incident was immediate, coordinated and comprehensive. The Bulawayo Fire Brigade reacted promptly, working tirelessly to stabilise compromised infrastructure and ensure that inmates and correctional officers remain safe.

“The Civil Protection Unit has been on the ground assessing the damage, mobilising resources and guiding emergency rehabilitation efforts. A technical team from the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works is currently conducting a structural assessment to expedite repairs,” he said.

Minister Moyo said the Government is fully committed to restoring normalcy at Khami Medium Prison without further delays.