Online Reporter
Sikhumbuzo Moyo in Tsholotsho
THE Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services (ZPCS) building brigades across the country must be fully harnessed to support the Government’s Vision 2030 infrastructure goals.
Speaking at the ZPCS Matabeleland North Prisons Day commemorations held at Tsholotsho grounds on Friday, Matabeleland North Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Richard Moyo, emphasised that these brigades not only aid national development but also offer ZPCS a chance to generate internal revenue. Additionally, they provide inmates with valuable, certified skills in construction and related trades.
“One critical area I wish to highlight is the contribution of ZPCS Building Brigades. These brigades should be fully utilised across all provinces to assist Government in delivering infrastructure under Vision 2030, particularly schools, clinics, staff housing and other public facilities,” said Minister Moyo.
In his address to the public as well as invited dignitaries who included Tsholotsho South legislator and Deputy Minister of National Housing Musa Ncube, Senator Alice Dube and ZPCS Officer Commanding, Commissioner Nesai Hlabano, Minister Moyo said in the same spirit of self-reliance, Matabeleland North province was encouraged to infensify food production activities to ensure self- sufficiency in feeding prison populations instead solely relying on central allocations.
He urged the province to form local partnerships with farmers, agri-businesses and development partners to enhance productivity and sustainability.
“Producing enough food within our institutions does not only meet immediate needs but contributes to national food security and reduces pressure on the fiscus.
“Another key pillar of transformation is the development of our human capital and I am reliably told that ZPCS has made commendable strides through partnership with Chinhoyi University of Technology to deliver a Bachelor of Science Honours in Correctional Service Management Degree. This, along with continuous in-service training programmes is helping officers remain relevant and effective in a rapidly changing corrections environment modem,” said Minister Moyo.
The Minister urged ZPCS officers to take advantage of these opportunities so as to remain disciplined and to stay focused, adding that professional conduct and ongoing learning are the foundation upon which correctional service is built.
“As the world of corrections becomes more dynamic and technologically advanced, we must not be left behind, we must lead from the front,” said Minister Moyo.
