Online Reporter
Sikhumbuzo Moyo, [email protected]
ZIMBABWE Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS) Commissioner-General Moses Chihobvu has challenged correctional officers to embrace positive masculinity, strengthen family relationships and become responsible role models both at home and in the workplace.
According to ZPCS, Comm-Gen Chihobvu was speaking during the Midlands and Masvingo Provinces Men’s Interface held at a resort in Gweru, where he said strong families are the foundation of a productive workforce and a stable society.
He said the platform was designed to address issues that shape men into responsible leaders, husbands, fathers and public servants, urging officers to take responsibility for their actions, mentor junior colleagues and lead by example.
“A strong man is one who protects rather than intimidates,” he said.
The Comm-Gen encouraged officers to accept correction with humility, saying personal growth depends on a willingness to learn and improve.
He said officers with stable families are better positioned to perform their duties professionally and urged them to make time for their spouses and children despite demanding work schedules.
He also encouraged them to participate in household responsibilities, support their children’s education and welfare, and make financial decisions jointly with their spouses.
Comm-Gen Chihobvu expressed concern over cases where some officers neglect their children’s welfare and warned against promiscuity, describing it as a threat to stable families.
He also cautioned officers against borrowing from loan sharks charging exorbitant interest rates, urging prudent financial planning and budgeting.
He further warned against drug and substance abuse, saying it destroys families, undermines professionalism and contributes to domestic violence.
He encouraged officers to undergo regular medical check-ups and participate in wellness programmes to safeguard their physical and mental well-being.
“Communication is the foundation of successful families,” he said, urging officers not to allow work commitments to distance them from their loved ones.
Drawing from his own life experiences, Comm-Gen Chihobvu encouraged officers to confront challenges with honesty, resilience and mutual support.
During the interactive session, officers openly discussed issues affecting men, including divorce, peer pressure, lack of trust, inadequate family care, long-distance relationships, financial pressures, income disparities between spouses and the growing influence of social media on marriages.
Participants shared personal experiences and agreed that communication, trust, tolerance, understanding and shared responsibility remain the pillars of successful families.
They also emphasised the need for spouses to agree on how to support extended families to minimise conflict.
Commissioner responsible for Human Capital Administration and Development and Gender Service, Commissioner Sikhulekile Ndlovu, said the Men’s Interface is guided by the Constitution of Zimbabwe and promotes the Ubuntu philosophy, positive masculinity and responsible fatherhood while nurturing supportive husbands and ethical leaders.
She said the programme provides a safe platform for officers to share experiences and support one another in overcoming life’s challenges.
